Weeklong discussion: NAIDOC Week 2024

Each year, NAIDOC week falls on the first Sunday in July and continues until the following Sunday. As part of this year's NAIDOC week, we will be having a weeklong discussion right here where you have the opportunity to ask questions and read responses to questions.

What is NAIDOC Week?
NAIDOC week is a week in the calendar to celebrate all things culture, recognise and respect the longest living culture in the world, our First Nations people and sharing what they contribute to our communities. NAIDOC week stands for National Aboriginal and Islanders Day Observance Committee.

Why is NAIDOC Week important?
NAIDOC week is important as it helps us share the knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people's knowledge and achievements and celebrate with all people, in particular, educating young people and children around culture and its significance in Australia's history and present day.

What is the theme for 2024 and what does this mean?
The theme for this years NAIDOC week is:
Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud

It invites all people to continue the proud spirit of ATSI culture and keep the fire burning.

What can you do as part of NAIDOC Week 2024?
You can attend a local event, most communities have at least one event over the course of the week including flag raisings, marches, kids activities, speeches, song dance and ceremony.
Some events are only open to mob while some are for ally’s as well.
If you can’t make it to an event posting about Aboriginal arts, culture, music on social media and spreading the message about all the great things.
Check out the link for events:
https://www.naidoc.org.au/local-events/local-naidoc-week-events
Showing your support doesn't have to be in person. By participating in these conversations such as this one and being open to learn that in itself is support.

This week's weeklong discussion is an opportunity for you to ask any questions you have. Feel free to add your questions to this thread and we will do our best to answer them.

[Thanks @ArraDreaming for your support in developing this thread. We value your contributions].

Please note, there will be a separate discussion in the Yarning Space for mob https://saneforums.org/t5/Yarning-Space/Happy-NAIDOC-week/m-p/1527010#m1527010. Please email team@saneforums.org if you identify as a First Nations person and we can add you to the Yarning Space.