A new website is being developed which we hope to have up and running soon. In the meantime, we have provided some basic information here about Reconciliation Australia and about this year's National Reconciliation Week. You can also register your interest in Reconciliation Australia.

Donate online today - to our online donations page.

Keeping The Flame Alive : National Reconciliation Week - May 27 – June 3, 2001

Last year a million Australians took part in walks for reconciliation all over the country, and the Sydney 2000 Olympics and its torch relay reflected strong reconciliation themes. National Reconciliation Week (NRW) 2001 is a great chance for all of us to maintain the momentum and ensure that this annual week of celebration and commitment to reconciliation remains a major event on the national calendar.

This year’s theme, Keeping the Flame Alive, draws on the spirit of last year’s Corroboree 2000 events, the people’s walks for reconciliation, the Olympic torch relay and the flame-lighting ceremony—all highlighting Australia’s desire for reconciliation. Reconciliation Australia is working with others to keep that spirit alive during NRW 2001 through public events and ceremonies between May 27 and June 3.

May 27 marks the anniversary of the 1967 Referendum and June 3 is the anniversary of the High Court’s Mabo case decision in 1992. ‘Keeping the flame alive’ isn’t just for NRW— beyond that, it means working together to deliver tangible outcomes which really make a difference.

Click here to see a selection of events planned for National Reconciliation Week

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What Can You Do?

National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to seek new pathways to reconciliation in their communities, workplaces, institutions and homes. It is a chance to reflect on progress to date, what remains to be done, and how to move forward. Many people are already organising events and activities — a few are listed in this flyer. You can:

• Hold a public ceremony or BBQ promoting reconciliation.
• Develop a Local Symbol of Reconciliation using the kit available from Reconciliation Australia.
  
• Consult locally about what practical steps are needed for reconciliation in your community.
  
• Invite an Indigenous speaker to your school, or learn more about the Indigenous history of your area.
  
• Adopt a local commitment to the national reconciliation documents launched last year at Corroboree 2000.
  
• Support Reconciliation Australia, the new body set up to provide a continuing national focus for reconciliation.
  
• Buy a ‘Flame of Reconciliation’ candle from any store of The Body Shop.
  
• Place the poster on the reverse of this flyer in a prominent place in your workplace, organisation, school or home.

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Reconciliation Australia – We Need Your Help

To stay alive, reconciliation needs more than just goodwill. It also requires your active contribution and financial support.

Reconciliation Australia is the independent, nonprofit body established to provide a national focus for reconciliation since the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation ended its work in December 2000. It aims to deliver real outcomes for reconciliation through forging innovative partnerships to: achieve social and economic equity for Indigenous peoples; strengthen the people’s movement for reconciliation; facilitate constructive discussion on Indigenous people’s rights; and build a framework for a shared future.

Reconciliation Australia will report on progress towards these goals, circulate information, encourage partnerships and provide forums for discussion. We need your help to continue the work and to make reconciliation a reality.
If you are not already on our mailing list, you can register with us as a reconciliation supporter and help make a difference to this national cause. Just send us your details by post, fax, or email, or through any store of The Body Shop.

One immediate way to help is to donate to Reconciliation Australia. All donations are tax-deductible.

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You can contact Reconciliation Australia at:
inquiries@reconciliation.org.au
www.reconciliation.org.au
PO Box 4773, Kingston ACT 2604
Tel: (02) 6295 9266 Fax: (02) 6295 0855

Or sign up as a supporter at any store of The Body Shop during National Reconciliation Week. Donations can be sent to the above address, and are tax-deductible.

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