Darwin Sunrise embracing reconciliation

In the lead up to National Reconciliation Week at the end of May, the Rotary Club of Darwin Sunrise (RCDS), NT, announced its commitment to develop a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) throughout 2022 to acknowledge and respond to the impact of our colonial history. The club has been endorsed by Reconciliation Australia.

Chartered on July 26, 1989, as a mixed gender club, it has a diverse membership reflecting a broad range of ages, racial backgrounds, and professional expertise.

Since 2006, RAPs have provided an avenue for organisations to sustainably and strategically take meaningful action to advance reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.

“Approximately 30 per cent of the Northern Territory population identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people. Our club is keen to acknowledge and celebrate the continued contribution Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people make to Australian society.”

“Approximately 30 per cent of the Northern Territory population identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people. Our club is keen to acknowledge and celebrate the continued contribution Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people make to Australian society,” Club President James Smith said.

“We are committed to learning more about the historical, cultural and social contexts of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across the NT, particularly the Larrakia people on whose country we live, work and play. We are keen to partner with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, organisations and communities to advance reconciliation in Australia. We are also keen to grow our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander membership.”

The RAP framework outlines tangible actions to help improve the knowledge and commitment of members. It is a strategic document that asks organisations to reflect on their internal knowledge and processes and ensure they are inclusive.

Pathway to reconciliation

The Rotary Club of Darwin Sunrise is:

• Developing and implementing its RAP
• Identified two RAP champions including current club president and director of membership. These champions include two Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members.
• Aligning club activities to the three pillars of reconciliation – relationships, respect, and opportunities.
• Increasing awareness through Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural protocols by conducting an Acknowledgment of Country at club and board meetings, inviting local Elders to undertake a Welcome to Country at important external community events and extending speaker invitations to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals and organisations.
• Sponsoring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander scholarships and awards; supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander led community activities; learning more about local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and embracing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander membership and participation through its club.