On the 4th of August we celebrated National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day. I could tell you all about what an amazing day we had. That the children and their families had a wonderful time. That the activities were so engaging – children were going from one activity to another. That I hadn’t seen so much cuteness in one spot! But sometimes a picture really does paint a thousand words.
What is Children’s Day?
National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day (Children’s Day) is the largest national day to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children. It is celebrated across Australia each year on 4th of August.
Children’s Day is a time to for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families to celebrate the strengths and culture of their children. The day is an opportunity for all Australians to show their support for Aboriginal children, as well as learn about the crucial impact that culture, family and community play in the life of every Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander child.
How did it start?
The first National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Children’s Day was held in 1988 and was set against the backdrop of protests by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their supporters during the bicentennial year. It was decided that a day was needed to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, to give them confidence and make them feel special and included.
Why is it important?
Children’s Day is a day to celebrate the strengths and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. It’s a day to help them stand tall and feel connected and proud. It is also a day to acknowledge that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children do not enjoy the same opportunities as most Australians. An Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander child is over 10 times more likely to experience out of home care.
To read more about this day visit: www.snaicc.org.au
The Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care (SNAICC) is the national non government peak body in Australia representing the interests of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families.