University marks Reconciliation Week with forum

Wednesday, 2 June 2010

The University of Adelaide's annual National Reconciliation Week celebrations will include a forum tomorrow, Thursday 3 June, to discuss what has been achieved in reconciliation and where to go from here.

The forum will hear from Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation Minister the Hon. Grace Portolesi and a panel including University of Adelaide Vice-Chancellor and President Professor James McWha, co-Chairs of Reconciliation SA Professor Peter Buckskin and Ms Jan Chorley and the University's Dean of Aboriginal Education, Wilto Yerlo, Professor Roger Thomas.

Professor McWha said the forum would give the University and others the opportunity to take stock of what progress had been made in reconciliation since the historic bridge walks of 10 years ago, and to focus on the way forward.

"It's almost seven years since we launched our own Reconciliation Statement but we are as firm in our commitment to social justice, equal opportunity and cultural diversity as ever," Professor McWha said.

"In recent years we have devoted significant resources and effort into supporting increased access, participation and successful outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and students, although there is still a way to go.

"There is no doubt that education plays a critical role in achieving social justice and equal opportunity and we are determined to continue to play our part."

Professor Roger Thomas said Indigenous student numbers had increased significantly over the past five years and initiatives were now taking place to broaden opportunities for Aboriginal education and better integrate Aboriginal education and perspectives across the whole University.

There will be a celebration afterwards with music performances from students of the Centre for Aboriginal Studies in Music (CASM).

WHAT: Reconciliation Week Forum followed by a celebration and performances by CASM students.
WHERE: Bonython Hall and Goodman Lawns, North Terrace Campus, University of Adelaide
WHEN: 11am-1pm, Thursday 3 June

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