More than a Word: Reconciliation Takes Action 2021

The dates for National Reconciliation Week remain the same each year as they commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey — the successful 1967 referendum, and the High Court Mabo decision respectively.

27 May 1967 | On this day, Australia’s most successful referendum saw more than 90 per cent of Australians vote to give the Australian Government power to make laws for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and recognise them in the Census.

3 June 1992 | On this day, the Australian High Court delivered the Mabo decision, the culmination of Eddie Koiki Mabo’s challenge to the legal fiction of “terra nullius” (land belonging to no one) and leading to the legal recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of lands. This decision paved the way for Native Title.

Reconciliation Australia’s theme for 2021, More than a word: Reconciliation takes action, urges the reconciliation movement towards braver and more impactful action.

2021 marks 20 years of Reconciliation Australia and almost three decades of Australia’s formal reconciliation process.

As the Australian Reconciliation Barometer highlights, there is far greater awareness of the complexity and magnitude of First Nations cultures and knowledges. However, we all have a role to play when it comes to reconciliation and we must be more determined than ever if we are to achieve the goals of the movement — a just, equitable, reconciled Australia.

At Holcim, we are proud of our role in building relationships and communities that value Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories, cultures, and futures. To celebrate this important week, we will be attending some of the many events happening around the country. If you would like to get involved, find a local event near you here.

Partnerships in action

Below are just a few of the partnerships with companies and communities that we work with every day.