This National Reconciliation Week – themed “More than a word. Reconciliation takes action” – we heed the call towards braver and more impactful action.
It’s a path the Australian Institute of Architects has started down, guided by the First Nations Advisory Working Group and Cultural Reference Panel.
An early milestone was the amendment of the Institute’s Constitution to not only provide greater recognition but a bolder commitment to action.
This is what National Reconciliation Week calls on us to do.
We will take this time to celebrate and build on the respectful relationships shared by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other Australians. To learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
As Reconciliation Australia says, this is something that must live in the hearts, minds and actions of all Australians as we move forward, creating a nation strengthened by respectful relationships between the wider Australian community, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
The Australian Institute of Architects recognises the unceded sovereign lands and rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples of these lands and waters.
This recognition generates acknowledgement and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Countries, Cultures and Communities, and their ways of being, knowing and doing.
Caring for Country practices including architecture and place shaping have existed on this continent since time immemorial.
The Institute recognises a professional commitment to engage and act meaningfully through reciprocal partnership and relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
We call on you to walk with us as part of the reconciliation movement. #NRW2021 #MoreThanAWord
