UnitingSA marked the launch of our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) on Wednesday with our Padninthi Community Day event, which attracted more than 250 attendees.

UnitingSA Acting CEO Dan Cox said the event marked an important moment for UnitingSA, which has a long and enduring history of engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

“Our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan builds on the significant work we have done over many decades to improve outcomes for First Nations peoples, including launching the Sunday Club in the 1960s – one of the country’s first Aboriginal youth programs,” Mr Cox said.

“Since then, we have continued service delivery and advocacy activities which support the wellbeing and aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

“Our Reflect RAP gives us the opportunity to build on that history and take tangible steps on our reconciliation journey as we honour the Kaurna word, ‘padninthi’ – meaning together.

“We brought the community together for our Padninthi Community Day to share our commitment to build stronger relationships, respect and opportunities with Aboriginal and Torres Strait community members. Over the coming months, we will be turning our RAP commitments into action as we strive to create a compassionate, respectful and just community in which all people participate and flourish.”

Padninthi Community Day was held at the Lefevre Community Stadium on Wednesday, 21 September and included a Welcome to Country from Margaret Brodie, performances by Nathan May and Tjarutja Dance Theatre Collective, and a free BBQ lunch. The vibrant event also featured cultural workshops, activities for all ages and information stalls hosted by Aboriginal organisations, business and stakeholders.

Learn more about UnitingSA’s Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan here.