First Day of NAIDOC Week in Australia

NAIDOC Week is an annual celebration in Australia that stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee. The first day of NAIDOC Week marks the beginning of a week-long celebration of the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

History:

• Origins: The origins of NAIDOC Week can be traced back to the Aboriginal rights movement. It began as a day of mourning and protest against the treatment of Indigenous people on Australia Day.
• Evolution: Over time, it evolved into a more positive celebration of Indigenous culture and heritage. In 1975, it was extended to a week-long event.
• Official Recognition: The Australian government now officially recognizes NAIDOC Week and supports various events across the country.

Traditions:

• Each year has a different theme set by the National NAIDOC Committee to highlight specific aspects or issues related to Indigenous Australians.
• The raising of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags is common during ceremonies.

Activities: On the first day, communities across Australia engage in various activities including:

• Flag-raising ceremonies
• Traditional dances and music performances
• Cultural workshops
• Art exhibitions
• Community festivals
• Awards to recognize contributions by Indigenous Australians

The first day sets the tone for a week dedicated to learning about, respecting, and celebrating the world's oldest continuous living cultures.