At Allegra School, National Sorry Day was commemorated over two impactful days, Thursday and Friday, with a series of educational and reflective activities designed to deepen students’ understanding of this significant day.
On Thursday, students participated in a Sorry Day education program, where they learned about the importance of National Sorry Day. This day serves as a poignant reminder and an opportunity for society to acknowledge the historical wrongs committed against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through forced removal. It also recognises the intergenerational trauma and ongoing impact these policies have had. Through these sessions, students gained a deeper appreciation of the day’s significance and the profound effects of these past injustices.
Part of the educational program included learning some Gumbangirr language greetings. Students practiced phrases such as “Where do you live?” (Juuda Ngiinda ngayinggi?) and “I live in Coffs Harbour” (Ngaya yaam ngayinggi Garlambirlala). This language lesson not only enriched the students’ linguistic skills but also connected them to the local Aboriginal culture, fostering a sense of respect and understanding.
On Friday, students engaged in a collaborative art project, creating artworks as they reflected on the impact of the Stolen Generations on Aboriginal Australians. This activity provided a creative outlet for students to express their feelings and thoughts about the stories and history they had learned. To deepen their understanding, students listened to music by Archie Roach, including his powerful song “Took the Children Away,” and a song by Briggs titled “The Children Came Back.” These songs poignantly narrate the experiences of the Stolen Generations, resonating with the themes of loss and resilience.
Although the commemoration of National Sorry Day is a somber occasion, Allegra students approached it with respect and empathy. The thoughtful discussions that emerged during these activities highlighted the significance of this day and the continuing impact of historical injustices on Indigenous Australians. Through these insightful conversations, students demonstrated a growing awareness of the intergenerational trauma that still affects many Indigenous communities.
The activities held at Allegra School for National Sorry Day provided a meaningful and educational experience for all involved, ensuring that the importance of acknowledging and understanding this part of Australian history is not forgotten