NAIDOC Week : 5th-12th July 2015

Inspired by the grief and courage of Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander people.

At Tobin Brothers Funerals we look after people not just at the moment they lose their loved ones but we have the privilege of caring for them in the years that follow through our aftercare initiatives.

As people attend our Christmas Remembrance Services, Remembering our Angels Services, Education Sessions or exhibit their works in our Art for the Heart Exhibition we see so many stories of inspiration from people who manage to overcome incredible losses. These people do not do it alone though, they do it with people who acknowledge their loss and support their efforts to come back into the world.

As I talk to people about grief and loss I often try to acknowledge that these emotions can arise from situations that do not always surround death, but rather a loss of any kind. Feeling bereaved is just as valid when you have lost a connection with someone, when you long for something that could have been, or perhaps something you hoped would be.

July 5-12 is NAIDOC week…National Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee Week, which celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It is a great opportunity to acknowledge and recognise the rich cultural history that makes Australia unique, and also to reflect upon the deep sense of loss that this community feels.

Today we would like to acknowledge and support the inspiring efforts of indigenous people who are overcoming unimaginable loss and oppression and who make wonderful contributions to society.

NAIDOC is celebrated not only in Indigenous communities, but by Australians from all walks of life. The week-long celebration is a wonderful opportunity to participate in a range of activities and to support your local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.

Here are some ideas on how to celebrate NAIDOC Week:

• Display the National NAIDOC Poster or other Indigenous posters around your classroom or workplace.
• Start your own Hall of Fame featuring Indigenous role models.
• Listen to Indigenous musicians or watch a movie about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history.
• Make your own Indigenous trivia quiz.
• Study a famous Indigenous Australian.
• Research the traditional Indigenous owners of your area.
• Learn Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and crafts.
• Create your own Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander style artwork.
• Run an art competition for your school or community.
• Research Indigenous history online or visit your library to find out more.
• Visit local Indigenous sites of significance or interest.
• Learn the meanings of local or national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander place names and words.
• Invite local Indigenous Elders to speak or give a Welcome to Country at your school or workplace.
• Invite an Indigenous sportsperson or artist to visit your school or workplace.
• Invite Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander dancers to perform.
• Host a community BBQ or luncheon.
• Hold a flag raising ceremony.

For more information about NAIDOC week and events being held in your area visit:

www.naidoc.org.au