b'Reaching for reconciliationOur vision is that every member of Uniting is empowered to take action that advances reconciliation. We want to provide culturally safe opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and build stronger, long-lasting relationships with their communities.Reconciliation is more than words. Our Innovateopenly about the challenges we face, says group Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) is all aboutmember Jodie Hampson. The Yarn Up Group taking steps forward to achieve this vision. Weprovides a safe and welcoming space to do that.have new strategies and have launched pilotThe group also helps advocate for changes to programs to start moving forward. Uniting policies and procedures, guided by an We want a brighter tomorrow to start today.Aboriginal cultural consultantincluding any Uniting acknowledges the pain and hardshipissues impacting staff and volunteers. that colonisation and discrimination have causedTogether, they provide guidance on making to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoplesservice delivery culturally safe for Aboriginal and their ongoing pain and suffering. We arecommunities in Victoria and Tasmania.committed to making change today.Everyone has a role to play in reconciliation. OurAboriginal culture local teams have identified ways to make the RAP work in connection with their local area.in the classroomWe thank everyone for their contribution andSt Lukes Kindergarten has been taking steps particularly acknowledge the guidance andto educate and connect new generations with support provided by the Aboriginal members Aboriginal culture. of the RAP Working Group. Last year St Lukes commissioned an As we move into the next stage, we will keepAcknowledgement to Wadawurrung Country finding ways of embedding reconciliationfrom local Aboriginal artist Uncle Norm Stanley.throughout Uniting so that everyone canWritten with Uncle Norm Stanley, the plaque contribute to a brighter tomorrow. reads: We acknowledge the Wadawurrung people of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians Weaving relationshipsof the Land. We pay our respects to Elders: Past, Formed in 2020, the Yarn Up Group creates aPresent and Emerging.culturally safe space for Aboriginal and TorresWorking together, the team created a songStrait Islander team members and volunteers toand actions around this statement. connect, share stories and advocate for change. The children are delighted to sing this song,Building relationships and establishing a safewhich helps connect the words to their meaning. environment, members can guide each other The children now have a powerful reminder of on specific issues.Indigenous cultures and communities and the Its important for Aboriginal and Torres Straitlands traditional owners.Island people to be able to speak honestly and 36 Uniting Vic.Tas Annual Report 2020-2021'