Canberra will mark Reconciliation Day on Monday 1 June with a free community event honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ culture and history.

The event will be held in John Dunmore Lang Place from 10am to 3pm. Highlights include:

• Headline performance by Casey Donovan, ARIA-award winning artist and a proud Gumbaynggirr and Dunghutti woman.
• Cultural workshops, including language sessions, traditional weaving, beading and hands-on craft activities suitable for all ages.
• Performances from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and dancers, including Wiradjuri Echoes, Dream Danz Studios, Tahalianna Soward-Mahanga, and Liam Keenan.
• Storytelling sessions sharing culture, knowledge and connection to Country through rhythm and movement.
• Guided tours and experiences providing opportunities to learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and stories through exhibitions, collections and culturally significant places (bookings may be required).
• A wide variety of food stalls and plenty of green space — bring a picnic rug or chair and spend the day with family and friends.

For more information, including the full program, transport and parking information, visit: www.act.gov.au/reconciliation-day

To make it easy to attend, public transport will be free for attendees from 9am-4pm. Let your driver or a customer service officer know you are attending Reconciliation Day — no need to tap on or off with your MyWay+ card.

Suzanne Orr MLA, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, encouraged all Canberrans to come along and immerse themselves in a day of reflection, recognition and connection.

“Reconciliation calls on all of us to listen, learn and commit to building a future grounded in respect and equality for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people,” Minister Orr said.

“This year’s theme All In reminds us that we all have a role to play in reconciliation. Reconciliation Day provides a meaningful opportunity to reflect on how we can each contribute to a more inclusive, respectful and united ACT.”

Reconciliation Australia has supported Reconciliation Day since its inception, CEO Karen Mundine said.

“I’m proud to be in Canberra once again to celebrate the only public holiday for reconciliation anywhere in Australia,” she said.

“It’s a unique opportunity for supporters across the ACT to bring to life this year’s National Reconciliation Week theme, All In, because reconciliation will not happen by itself – it will only happen when all of us actively play a part.”