The meaning of NAIDOC Week

The NAIDOC website explains:

National NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia in the first week of July each year (Sunday to Sunday), to celebrate and recognise the history, Culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. NAIDOC 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. You can support and get to know your local Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities through activities and events held across the country.

In 2024 the NAIDOC Week theme is “Keep the fire burning! Blak, Loud and Proud”. The NAIDOC website has a video about the theme, and explains the theme below:

This year’s theme celebrates the unyielding spirit of our communities and invites all to stand in solidarity, amplifying the voices that have long been silenced.

The fire represents the enduring strength and vitality of Indigenous cultures, passed down through generations despite the challenges faced. It is a symbol of connection to the land, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. As we honour this flame, we kindle the sparks of pride and unity, igniting a renewed commitment to acknowledging, preserving, and sharing the cultural heritage that enriches our nation.

“Blak, Loud and Proud” encapsulates the unapologetic celebration of Indigenous identity, empowering us to stand tall in our heritage and assert our place in the modern world. This theme calls for a reclamation of narratives, an amplification of voices, and an unwavering commitment to justice and equality. It invites all Australians to listen, learn, and engage in meaningful dialogue, fostering a society where the wisdom and contributions of Indigenous peoples are fully valued and respected.

Through our collective efforts, we can forge a future where the stories, traditions, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are cherished and celebrated, enriching the fabric of the nation with the oldest living culture in the world.

Want to know more about the history of NAIDOC Week?

The NAIDOC Committee has published a timeline to illustrate the story of NAIDOC Week.

Want to get involved?

There is SO much to get involved in!

Check out the NAIDOC website for a list of NAIDOC events here.  We also encourage you to visit your local government websites to find out what is happening in your community.

There are so many incredible films and documentaries to delve into! Subscribe to Fanforce for the NAIDOC First Nations Film Festival and if you haven’t seen ‘The New Boy’, it is showing at HOYTS. PLUS Genocide In the Wildflower State has also release some more screenings at LUNA specially for NAIDOC Week.

Interested in attending a fabulous Makuru ball? Take a look at NGALAK NIDJA BILYA, at The Rechabite WA.

The WA State Library has some activations you can also get involved in.

Why not immerse yourself in some art? If this sounds like you have a look at the REVEALED Exhibition.

Watch the NAIDOC week awards with your family and friends, celebrating “the outstanding contributions and excellence of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across ten award categories, including art, culture, education and training, sport, environment and leadership.”

There are also so many volunteering opportunities. We encourage you to contact your local NAIDIOC committees and see what you can do!

Create Your Own Event

Here are some ideas from the official NAIDOC Week site on how to celebrate NAIDOC Week:

• Display the National NAIDOC Poster or other Indigenous posters around your classroom or workplace.
• Start your own hall of fame featuring First Nations role models.
• Listen to Indigenous musicians or watch a movie about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history.
• Make your own Indigenous trivia quiz.
• Study a famous Indigenous Australian.
• Research the Traditional Owners of your area.
• Study Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and crafts.
• Work with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander artist to produce an artwork representing the theme.
• Run an art competition for your school or community.
• Research Indigenous history online or visit you library to find books about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
• Visit local Indigenous sites of significance or interest.
• Learn the meanings of local or national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander place names and words.
• Invite local Elders to speak or give a Welcome to Country at your school or workplace.
• Invite a First Nations sportsperson or artist to visit you.
• Invite Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander dancers to perform.
• Host a community BBQ or luncheon.
• Hold a flag raising ceremony.
• Organise a smoking ceremony.