Nazareth Catholic Community acknowledges and recognises the cultural and spiritual values of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, families, staff, and community members, as an integral part of our College Community. We are committed to ensuring that, as a school and community, we acknowledge our part in the journey of reconciliation and prepare young people for continuing this throughout their own lives.
As a College Community we acknowledge the wrongs of the past and pray there is truth, justice, healing, and historical acceptance. Our vision for reconciliation is inspired by our Catholic ethos as we celebrate interconnectedness, ensuring equity, unity, empathy, and acknowledgement of the past, embodying respect for the dignity of each person in our care. We aim to build a sense of belonging amongst First Nations children and families through the implementation of our committed RAP actions. We look to celebrate and recognise First Nations children and families, as well as working toward deep listening and understanding of their experiences and wisdom.
Our College Community will prioritise actions that support ‘Closing the Gap’ in education, as well as caring for, and making space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ individual and collective rights and cultures. As a large organisation that works with young people, it is our responsibility to create a range of opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians as they become proud, confident, and resilient young people.
Our hope is that students are empowered to be people of justice and commit to making the world a better place, by fully embracing all that is required to bring about a reconciled Australia. We will continue to learn and grow in the actions we take towards reconciliation and understand more deeply the need for change.
Narragunnawali (pronounced narra-gunna-wally) is a word from the language of the Ngunnawal people that means alive, wellbeing, coming together and peace. The Nazareth Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) has been developed through Reconciliation Australia’s Narragunnawali program, and is a formal statement of commitment to promoting reconciliation between our community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The RAP demonstrates our commitment to making positive change through forward-thinking about reconciliation.
Caitlyn is a Barkindji Woman, living in Adelaide on Kaurna Country alongside her husband Dale, and their son Dusty. Caitlyn is emerging as a contemporary artist, leveraging her artwork to forge a deep connection with her Country and heritage.
This commissioned artwork for Nazareth reflects our community mission with powerful Aboriginal symbols. It represents our students, school community, five Patron Saints, and Jesus of Nazareth. The artwork highlights the power of strength through adversity, our dedication to charity and social justice, and life’s journey before and after Nazareth.
