NAIDOC Week: “Keep the Fire Burning”

From Sunday, Australians will come together to celebrate thousands of years of history.

Key points

• This year’s theme is “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud.”
• NAIDOC – National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee – hosts the week, which runs until July 14.
• The National NAIDOC Week Awards Ceremony was held prior to NAIDOC Week on July 6 at the Adelaide Convention Centre.

NAIDOC Week kicked off on Sunday, July 7 to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Indigenous Australians.

“The resilience of mob, our shared experiences, collective memories and kinship is a source of tremendous pride,” National NAIDOC Committee Co-Chair, Aunty Lynette Riley, said.

“We honour the flame of the fire, kindling the sparks of pride and unity, igniting a renewed commitment to acknowledging, preserving, and sharing the cultural heritage that enriches our nation.”

“Celebration of identity”

This year’s theme is “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud.”

The theme “encapsulates the unapologetic celebration of Indigenous identity, empowering us to stand tall in our heritage and assert our place in the modern world,” National NAIDOC Committee Co-Chair Steven Satour said.

“This theme calls for a reclamation of our narratives, an amplification of our voices, and an unwavering commitment to justice and equality.”

NAIDOC – National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee – hosts the week, which runs until July 14.

This year’s theme is “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud.”

The week is “an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth,” read a NAIDOC statement.

“You can support and get to know your local Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities through activities and events held across the country.”

“Largest celebration”

Brisbane’s Musgrave Park is hosting the nation’s “largest celebration” for NAIDOC Week.

The family friendly festival runs from 9am to 5pm on Friday July 12.

The day will include “live entertainment and activities showcasing aspects of First Nations People.”

It will also include free amusement rides, First Nations food stalls and a “Community Corroboree” celebration.

For a full run down of the day visit here.

NAIDOC Awards

The National NAIDOC Week Awards Ceremony were held prior to NAIDOC Week on July 6 at the Adelaide Convention Centre.

The awards recognise the outstanding contributions that Indigenous Australians make to improve the lives of people in their communities.

Among the awards is the National NAIDOC Person Award, which last year was won by Professor Kelvin Kong, Australia’s first Indigenous surgeon.

Aunty Dulcie Flower’s contributions have been recognised on a national level, resulting in her appointment in 2019 as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in for her service to the Indigenous community and her pivotal role in the 1967 Referendum Campaign.

The national broadcaster is also featuring an “extensive collection” of special Indigenous Australian content during the week.

“The ABC is proud to celebrate NAIDOC Week 2024, with a variety of compelling, entertaining content for all Australians,” Head ABC Indigenous Kelrick Martin said.

For more information on NAIDOC Week visit here.

For activities and events in your local area visit the NAIDOC event list.

Article supplied with thanks to Mike Crooks.

Michael is a senior journalist and former news editor of Who magazine. His work has appeared in People, Marie Claire, The Daily Telegraph, Herald Sun, news.com.au, Qantas magazine, QantasLink Spirit, Who and The New Daily.

Image: The 2024 National NAIDOC Poster incorporating the Aboriginal Flag and the Torres Strait Islander Flag (licensed by the Torres Strait Island Council)