This National Sorry Day and ahead of National Reconciliation Week starting tomorrow, Canteen is reaffirming our commitment to national reconciliation in recognition of cancer’s disproportionate impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It’s an important time for all Australians to learn about and explore reconciliation and Canteen is recognising this important week with a range of activities.
Indigenous Australians Under 18s Program
As you’re reading, a group of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and Canteen staff are attending our first Indigenous Australians Under 18s program. Taking place on Anangu land in Central Australia, this peer connection program gives young people a chance to experience the rich culture that Uluru holds. The group will be taking part in traditional dot painting, a tour of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and a sunset camel ride around Uluru led by Traditional Owners of the land. Like all Canteen programs, there will also be time for our young people to come together and yarn about their experiences and connect with each other.
An update (9 June 2023):
We have just heard back from the group of young people and staff who visited Anangu land in Central Australia as part of our first Indigenous Australians Under 18s Program.
The program was a chance for the group to connect with each other during three days of culture, art and breathtaking landscapes. The weekend was action packed, with the group enjoying a sunset camelback ride, taking part in a traditional dot painting workshop and admiring both Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa up close and in person. Most importantly, the group of young people were able to connect with one another over shared experiences.
The program was definitely enjoyed by all and Canteen is excited to continue to provide cultural programs to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people impacted by cancer.
