Be brave, make a change and take a leap into learning about Australia’s First Peoples this Reconciliation Week 2022. Discover more about our shared histories, cultures and achievements through the lens of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
The below list is only a sample of the many books and audio-visual resources available for you at the Yarra Plenty Regional Library. Search our catalogue for more!
Banyule Reconciliation Group: Pamphlet and booklet collection
This collection of original pamphlets is located in the Ivanhoe Library and Cultural Hub — Local History Collection. Take some time to pour over these really interesting and informative snapshots of various issues; from Reconciliation, and Indigenous language maps to explanations of treaty and land rights.
Truth-telling: history, sovereignty and the Uluru Statement
Henry Reynolds, 2021
This recently published book is written by historian, Henry Reynolds, so expect attention to detail in this wide-ranging and thorough exploration of both our past and our possible futures. As historical literature, it is an interesting and enlightening read. The chapter ‘The truth about January 26’ is a must-read for anyone curious about the nature of the controversy of this National day. As Reynolds puts it ‘Truth-telling is the ultimate gesture of respect’ p.239.
Where were you?
A book commemorating the Australian Prime Minister's National apology to Aboriginal people, to the Stolen Generations
Where were you, back in February 2008, when Kevin Rudd made his formal apology from the people of Australia to our stolen generations? This book shares with us a collection of reminiscences of both Victorian Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples, as they share their experiences on the day of the speech. These very personal recollections are presented with photographs and portraits of the people who shared their heartfelt stories of this historic day.
A rightful place : a road map to recognition
Makarrata: the Yolgnu word meaning a coming together after a struggle, facing the facts of wrongs and living again in peace. Makarrata provides the framing for this collection of writings from some of Australia’s most influential Aboriginal Australian leaders. These insightful essays span a wide range of ideas and perspectives with a stated goal of providing a road map to constitutional recognition.