The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy
With NAIDOC Week in full swing (6 to 13 July 2025), we take the opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It is an opportunity for all Australians to engage with and learn from First Nations voices, fostering deeper understanding, respect, and reconciliation.
What is NAIDOC Week?
NAIDOC stands for the National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee. It is an annual event dedicated to recognising and celebrating the contributions, culture, and history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. What began as a day of advocacy has evolved into a week-long national celebration of Indigenous excellence, resilience, and cultural heritage.
The History of NAIDOC Week
The origins of NAIDOC Week trace back to the 1920s when First Nations activists began advocating for the recognition of Aboriginal rights. In 1938, on the 150th anniversary of British colonisation, the Day of Mourning was held—a pivotal protest highlighting the injustices faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
In the 1950s, this day evolved into National Aborigines Day, which was observed on the second Sunday of July. By the 1970s, the celebrations expanded to a full week and included Torres Strait Islander communities, leading to the establishment of the National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC). Since then, NAIDOC Week has grown into a nationwide celebration of First Nations culture, resilience, and contributions to Australian society.
This Years Theme: The Next Generation - Strength, Vision & Legacy
The 2025 NAIDOC theme, "The Next Generation – Strength, Vision & Legacy", highlights the importance of fostering strong future Indigenous Leaders, preserving cultural heritage, and ensuring that traditions and knowledge continue to thrive. It is a call to action to uplift and empower young First Nations voices while honouring the strength and wisdom of their ancestors.
Ways to Honour NAIDOC Week
- Learn and Listen: Attend NAIDOC events, watch documentaries, and read books by Indigenous authors.
- Engage Indigenous Talent: Book a First Nations Speaker for your next event to gain firsthand insights and perspectives.
- Support First Nations Businesses: Partner with Indigenous-led enterprises and organisations.
- Commit to Reconciliation: Explore ways your organisation can implement meaningful reconciliation actions beyond NAIDOC Week.
This NAIDOC Week, let’s celebrate, elevate, and empower First Nations voices. Their stories shape our shared future, and by listening and learning, we can contribute to a more inclusive and united Australia.
#NAIDOC2025 #TheNextGeneration #StrengthVisionLegacy #FirstNationsLeadership
