Indigenous Literacy Day 

Indigenous Literacy Day

On Wednesday, 2 September, we celebrated Indigenous Literacy Day, a day dedicated to recognising and celebrating the languages, stories, cultures, and communities of First Nations peoples. It is an important opportunity to share knowledge, learn from one another, and continue to strengthen understanding and appreciation of First Nations cultures. This year’s theme, “Country is our Teacher,” encouraged us to reflect on the deep connection First Nations peoples have with Country. We explored where we come from, the lands we are connected to, our special totems, and Dreaming stories that are meaningful to us. Through these conversations, we hoped to give primary students a greater understanding of who we are as First Nations people and the cultural connections that shape our identities.

To celebrate the day, our First Nations secondary students created presentations about themselves and their cultural backgrounds. They shared where their mobs are from, their connections to Country and community, and stories that have had a special impact on them. Following the presentations, the students read books from our library written by First Nations authors that explored themes of Country, culture, and identity. Primary First Nations students were also given the opportunity to share their own stories and experiences.

Within the neighbourhoods’ students answered thoughtful questions from the younger girls and engaged in meaningful conversations about culture, identity, and belonging. It was wonderful to see students coming together to learn from one another. Watching our secondary students proudly share their culture and experiences helped build understanding and created a space where students felt comfortable asking questions and deepening their knowledge of First Nations perspectives. 

Ms India Bament-Sitkowski
First Nations Student Support Officer

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