The National Sorry Day Anniversary on February 13 refers to the annual commemoration of the day in 2008 when the then-Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd delivered a historic apology to the Indigenous peoples of Australia, particularly the Stolen Generations. The Stolen Generations refers to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who were forcibly removed from their families under government policies from the late 19th century to the 1970s.
Key Details:
Date: February 13, observed annually.
Significance: Marks the anniversary of the formal apology, acknowledging the pain, suffering, and loss caused by these policies.
Event: Prime Minister Kevin Rudd’s apology was delivered in Parliament and broadcast across the nation. It was a moment of national healing and reconciliation.
Importance:
Recognizes the injustices of the past and their ongoing impact on Indigenous communities.
Reinforces Australia’s commitment to reconciliation and fostering understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.
Common Observances:
Community gatherings and discussions.
Cultural ceremonies led by Indigenous elders.
Educational events promoting awareness about the history of the Stolen Generations and Indigenous culture.
This day is distinct from National Sorry Day (observed on May 26), which commemorates the broader history of the Stolen Generations and raises awareness about the ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous Australians. Both dates contribute to the national dialogue on reconciliation and the importance of acknowledging and learning from the past.
