- Leave a review
- Bookmark
- Share
- Report
- prev
- next
Description
You might be surprised to learn that National Sorry Day isn’t just a day about saying “sorry.” It’s a day of acknowledgment. It’s about recognizing the mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, particularly the Stolen Generations—those who were forcibly removed from their families by government agencies and church missions.
History
Back in 1997, the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission released the Bringing Them Home report. It was based on testimonies from hundreds of Indigenous people, many of whom had been taken from their families as children.
The stories were heartbreaking.
The nation couldn’t ignore it any longer. One year later, on May 26, 1998, the first National Sorry Day was held. People gathered across Australia to express their sorrow, show support, and begin the journey toward healing.
It wasn’t until 2008 that then-Prime Minister Kevin Rudd formally said sorry on behalf of the Australian government. That was a big deal. But it didn’t mean the journey was over. National Sorry Day – May 26 continues to be observed to remember the past and keep the conversation going.
How To Celebrate
1. Attend a Sorry Day Event
Many communities hold ceremonies, walks, or gatherings. You’ll often find people laying purple flowers (a symbol of healing) at memorials or community centers.
2. Read the Sorry Day Book
Books like “Read it and Weep, Admitting our Wrongs” or the children’s book Sorry Day by Coral Vass help deepen your understanding. They aren’t just informative—they're powerful.
3. Listen and Learn
Podcasts, interviews, and stories from the Stolen Generations are widely available. Take a quiet moment to listen with an open heart.
4. Support Indigenous Artists and Voices
Buy from Indigenous-owned businesses, share their stories, and promote their voices. Simple choices matter.
5. Have a Conversation
Don’t be shy about talking to your kids, friends, or coworkers. Ask questions. Share what you’ve learned. These conversations open doors.
Amazing Facts
-
Purple flowers, especially the Native Hibiscus, are the official symbol of the day. They represent resilience and healing.
-
The first Sorry Day in 1998 had over a million Australians participate across events nationwide.
-
The Bringing Them Home report had 54 recommendations, many of which are still being worked on today.
-
The Sydney Harbour Bridge walk in 2000 saw over 250,000 people walk together in support of reconciliation.
-
Some schools now teach about Sorry Day as part of the official curriculum, helping new generations understand the truth.
Importance
1. Acknowledging the Truth
For years, the stories of the Stolen Generations were hidden, ignored, or downplayed. National Sorry Day gives a platform to those voices that were silenced. By acknowledging the truth of what happened, we begin the process of restoring dignity and justice to those affected.
2. Building Bridges Between Communities
Events like the Sydney Harbour Bridge walk in 2000 weren’t just symbolic—they were real moments of connection. Thousands of Australians walked side by side, saying “we’re in this together.” National Sorry Day continues to build those bridges. And yes, we still ask: Can the Bridge Hold this Many of Us? The answer depends on our willingness to connect, listen, and stand together.
3. Promoting Reconciliation
Reconciliation isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a process that takes honesty, effort, and compassion. National Sorry Day helps keep the spirit of reconciliation alive—not just on one day a year, but throughout daily life. Saying “sorry” is meaningful when it leads to real change, inclusion, and equity.
Add a review