• Posted on 11 May 2023
  • 3-minute read

Wondering how you can support efforts this National Reconciliation Week and beyond? Here are some ways you can get involved and be a proactive ally.

Educate yourself

Learn more about Indigenous history and culture. If you aren't sure where to look, here are a few helpful resources: 

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Descriptive transcript

As New Zealander of the Year, I'm calling on every one of my fellow Kiwis to help support a very important cause.

Racism needs your help to survive.

You may not be in a position to give much to racism. But whatever you feel comfortable giving will make a huge difference.

You don't have to be a full-on racist. Just being a tiny bit racist is enough.

A smile, a cheeky giggle, even a simple nod in agreement. It all adds up, and it gives others the message that it's OK.

Frequently asked questions about racism:

"But I'm not a real racist. Can I still help?"

Of course. Even if you don't come from a racist background, that's OK. Being a bit racist is super easy.

"How do I spread the word?"

You don't actually have to talk people into it. Just be a bit racist, and they'll feel the social pressure to follow along.

"My mum says being a bit racist is bad."

Oh, shut up, mum!

"What's in it for me?"

Uh, nothing. There's no benefit whatsoever to being racist.

But ask yourself, what if everyone stopped giving to racism? What kind of future would that be for our children?

"If I only give a little bit, will that even make a difference?"

Not to you, no. But to the people receiving the racism. They'll be getting hundreds of small bits every day. So it will add up. It will be noticed.

"How do I show my support?"

You might not want to wear a T-shirt that says how much of a racist you are.

No thanks. I'm racist on the inside.

But you can laugh at racist comments. It does the same thing.

Remember, the only thing that can keep racism alive and help it grow is feeding it, nurturing it. And that's where you come in.

Will you help it flourish? What will you give to racism?

Attend events and workshops

Throughout the year, UTS hosts a range of events, exhibitions and workshops. Keep an eye out for announcements in the Insider student newsletter, social media pages, and campus screens.

Here are some of our top picks for National Reconciliation Week:

  • Voice, Treaty, Truth (Mon 29 May) – join a panel discussion on the Uluru Statement from the Heart to learn how we can advocate for First Nations justice and self-determination, including enshrining a First Nations Voice in the Australian Constitution and engaging in truth-telling.
  • Reconciliation Week space (27 – 3 June) – check out the Student Learning Hub’s display space (Building 2, level 4) where you can sit, draw, learn more about National Reconciliation Week and reflect on this year’s theme of being a voice for generations. The space will have information, prompts, and resources to help you get involved.
  • 'Don’t ask that’ with Koori Kinnections (Mon 29 May and Thur 1 June) – visit the Student Learning Hub for a ‘don't ask that’ Q&A discussion where you can have your questions about Australian Indigenous culture, National Reconciliation Week and the upcoming Voice to Parliament referendum answered in a safe and judgement-free space.

Plus, stay tuned for UTS First Nations Society’s NAIDOC week celebrations coming up in week 2 of Spring session!

Advocate for Indigenous rights

Taking action is one of the best ways to make positive, meaningful change. You can shift from being a bystander to proactive ally by:

  • learning about First Nations-led campaigns, getting involved, and reaching out to your MPs to express your support.
  • volunteering with Reconciliation NSW or other Indigenous organisations and community groups (and earn your SOUL Award at the same time!).
  • attending a local protest for First Nations rights.

Be respectful and inclusive

We all play a part in creating a safe and respectful campus. Familiarise yourself with the UTS Equity, Inclusion and Respect Policy and call out racism when you see it.

 

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