NAIDOC stands for ‘National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee', and is an annual, week-long celebration of the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year, NAIDOC Week runs from the 4-11 of July and is a national celebration that all Australians can engage with and enjoy.
The theme for NAIDOC Week 2021 is Heal Country. This theme reflects the strong and vital connection between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and Country, and the fight for protection of Country. To read more about what Heal Country means, click here.
During NAIDOC Week, many communities celebrate in a range of different ways. Whether you are in lockdown or not, you can engage in the celebrations! Here are some of our favourite suggestions from the National NAIDOC Committee.
Firstly, read about the NAIDOC 2021 artwork by Gubbi Gubbi artist Maggie-Jean Douglas. You can print it to display in your home, classroom or workplace, or share it on your social media.
If you are currently in lockdown, why not listen to some incredible Indigenous artists? Some of our favourites include Jessica Mauboy, Thelma Plum, Archie Roach, Gurrumul, Emily Wurrumara, and King Stingray, to name a few. Or check out this great Deadly Hearts - Walking Together collaboration. For movies, we suggest checking out Fan Force’s Indigenous collection.
Another idea and something you can engage your children in is researching and creating a profile on an Indigenous role model. If your kids are interested in sport, Adam Goodes, Latrell Mitchell and Cathy Freeman are examples of proud Aboriginal athletes that are great role models that they might like to learn about.
Some of our favourite books by Indigenous authors and illustrators include Growing Up Aboriginal in Australia by Anita Heiss, Too Much Lip by Melissa Lucashenko and The Yield by Tara June Winch. Our Foundation publishes books suitable for people of all ages, and have just released our first series of graphic novels! Check out some great titles available on our website.
Do you know the history of the area in which you live, and the meanings of the place names? Try researching and teaching your family, friends and neighbours of the significance. Research through AIATSIS.
NAIDOC Week is about respecting and celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Engaging in and encouraging your children and communities to engage in these events, even from home, can be fun, exciting and rewarding. Learn more about NAIDOC Week by clicking here.
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