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:: Local Reconciliation Groups (LRGs)
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-> Localising Reconciliation
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Reconciliation Queensland, ANTaR, and government agencies are committed to the strong development of local groups as the base of the reconciliation movement, with the focus of this movement extending beyond awareness and symbolic recognition to a practical engagement in political and social issues.
Many local Reconciliation Groups exist across Queensland and there is a growing network of experienced people in establishing and maintaining membership and pursuing diverse activities for these localised groups. Some groups are strongly established, engaged with local government, and pursuing practical projects; others are struggling for membership and focus.
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Localising Reconciliation
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Reconciliation is a personal journey requiring a personal commitment. It is a people's movement and requires localised action to effectively develop partnerships and understanding that will support justice and equity for Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people in this country.
This people's movement gained momentum during the 1990s, where individuals representing different communities and groups were inspired by the Council for Reconciliation vision for “A united Australia which respects this land of ours, values the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and heritage, and provides justice and equity for all.”
Local reconciliation groups continued after the Council for Reconciliation ceased operations in 2001. In 2007 and 2008 Close the Gap campaigns and the formal public apology to the stolen generations has created a renewed interest in the peoples movement for reconciliation. Today around Queensland local reconciliation groups, some formal and some social, continue to focus on the bringing together of Indigenous and non-Indigenous Queenslanders to ensure that justice, equality and reconciliation remains a significant part of the Queensland way of life, now and into the future.
There are many Reconciliation Groups in Queensland some only having a few members and some having several hundred.
Some reconciliation groups are called, Local Reconciliation Groups (LRGs), others are affiliated with an organisation or community group including church groups, community and organisational committees which might be attached to government departments, local councils, incorporated not-for-profit organisation and elders groups.
If you would like to join a Local Reconciliation Group (LRG) contact Reconciliation Queensland and we can point you in the right direction.
Wanting to set up your own group? Talk to those who can assist. Call RQI or alternatively contact a featured LRG found on this site.
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Get Involved in Reconciliation
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Reconciliation is a learning journey for all involved. Participating in
events and activities may broaden your understanding of issues and
provide support for Indigenous rights. Your participation will be a
great starting point to your journey and help you to link up with
people from the local area. Joining RQI will help to get up to date
information on events from around Queensland and access to the members
site and resources.
Below are some key dates to think about as key events are organised by
LRGs and Indigenous community organisations on these dates:
- Sorry Day (26 May),
- Reconciliation Week (27 May - 3 June)
- NAIDOC Week (2-9 July)
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Wanting to start up a Local Reconciliation Group?
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A Local Reconciliation Group (LRG) is a number of people who have
formed into a group to support the reconciliation process and advance
it within their area. A Reconciliation group is generally made up of
Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, however many LRGs are
predominantly made up of non-Indigenous people who work with Indigenous
people in a variety of situations. There is no need to initially think
of a LRG as a “community organisation” needing funding or formal
structure and needing to have set structured activities.
'Reconciliation starts with you and your community. Regardless of what you do, big or small, it all counts.'
Walking Together, April 1998.
For sustainability, a LRG works with its members to decide the best way
forward, analyse the needs and structure the approach. LRGs will change
and develop and the knowledge and interests of the group change. Just
remember you are not alone in this journey … register your group with
RQI and we can assist you by providing advice and resources to support
your needs. RQI provides discounts for Individual members of affiliated
Reconciliation groups and organisations.
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© Reconciliation Queensland Incorporated 2008
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