Cirrus@Austlit

Our vision is for an Australia that provides equal life chances for all, recognising and respecting the special place, culture and contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians.

As a non-profit, independent organisation, we seek to eliminate the glaring gap in life expectancy between Indigenous and non-Indigenous children. That the life of an Indigenous child is likely to end 17 years earlier than a non-Indigenous child's is not acceptable in an affluent country like Australia. All the work we do with our project partners is dedicated to narrowing that gap.' Source: http://reconciliation.org.au/home/about-ra/who-is-ra (Sighted:1/04/2009)

'The information and resources contained in this guide provide a platform for teachers and educators to consider how to embed important ideas around reconciliation and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and contributions, within the specific Subject/Learning Area of English. Please note that this guide is neither prescriptive nor exhaustive, and users are encouraged consult with their local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community in engaging with the material contained in the guide.' (Introduction)

'Narragunnawali : Reconciliation in Schools and Early Learningsupports the development of environments that foster a higher level of knowledge and pride in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and contributions.Narragunnawali (pronounced narra-gunna-wally) is a word from the language of the Ngunnawal people, Traditional Owners of the land on which Reconciliation Australia’s Canberra office is located, meaning alive, wellbeing, coming together and peace.' (Source : https://www.reconciliation.org.au/narragunnawali/

"Reconciliation is about two groups settling their differences so that they can move forward together. Reconciliation in Australia is about Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians learning from each other, understanding one another and building respectful relationships. It is also about taking an active part in working together.

Today in all areas of society, health, environment, schools, sport and the arts, peole are taking part in reconciliation. Through their programs and activites they are demonstrating 'reconciliation in action'.

In The Reconciliation Journey you will learn about the long road of reconciliation since the colonisation of Australia. Everyone has a role to play in reconciliation. Learning about Indigenous and non-Indigenous perspectives, and about Australia's shared history, is an important place to start."

(Source: Introduction. p.4)