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Sorry Day provides a chance to turn sentiment into action

23 May 2008 - Media release HREOC - National Sorry Day (Monday, 26 May) is the perfect catalyst to turn sentiment into action for members of the Stolen Generations, Aboriginal andTorres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner Tom Calma said today.

"The National Apology was a defining moment in our nation's history, but itis now time to take the step beyond sorry and address the outstanding needsof the Stolen Generations," Commissioner Calma said. "National Sorry Day puts the spotlight again on the challenges we face as anation in eliminating the gap between the life advantages of non-Indigenousand Indigenous Australians. But for members of the Stolen Generations, thereare distinct challenges that must be directly faced - simply focussing onclosing the gap won't do.

"There is a pressing need to focus on those measures that will advance thehealing process for the Stolen Generations. The focus in the coming monthsmust be on consultation with Stolen Generations members on how best topromote a healing agenda and respond holistically to the recommendations ofthe Bringing them home report. "The federal government has already said it intends to work in partnershipwith Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, so let's hope thisconsultative approach to healing can be adopted by all governments aroundAustralia.

"Partnership across all areas is essential to long-term and sustainableimprovements in health and standards of living for all IndigenousAustralians, specifically for the Stolen Generations," Mr Calma said. Commissioner Calma said National Sorry Day was also a day of reflection torecognise and pay respect to those who were forcibly removed from theirfamilies, and those who have fought hard for recognition of the lifeexperiences of the Stolen Generations. It is a day on which we reaffirm theinherent value and dignity of Indigenous peoples in this country.

Source: HREOC

Further information: stolen generations issues page - includes news index and external links