Purple across the land calls Australia to reflect on National Sorry Day

From city landmarks to regional areas, buildings and public spaces across Australia were lit purple on 26 May to mark the 29th anniversary of National Sorry Day and honour Stolen Generations survivors, their families and communities.

National Sorry Day provides an opportunity for communities across Australia to reflect on and acknowledge the ongoing impacts of policies that resulted in the forced removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families, communities and cultures. It is a day centered on recognition, reflection and healing for Stolen Generations survivors and their descendants.

The Healing Foundation invited councils and organisations across Australia to take part in a national show of recognition by illuminating local landmarks, civic buildings and public spaces.

The colour purple, derived from the native purple hibiscus, or desert rose, was chosen by Stolen Generations survivors as a symbol of resilience, healing and strength.

Across the country, councils and organisations responded to the invitation by illuminating local landmarks and public spaces, bringing visibility to National Sorry Day across communities.

On Kaurna country, Adelaide Oval was among the sites illuminated in recognition of National Sorry Day.

As Mieke, proudly working on behalf of Adelaide Oval, explained, National Sorry Day serves as an important reminder to recognise the strength of Stolen Generations survivors, reflect on the impacts of forced removal, and continue the work of truth-telling and healing.

 “We are on a reflecting journey, continuing to learn, for us it is important. The more opportunities that can create conversations, the more awareness we can raise,” she said.

For Mieke, participation in the initiative was an opportunity to encourage reflection, raise awareness and acknowledge the experiences of Stolen Generations survivors.

“It is acknowledging the past and the trauma of the Stolen Generation and standing with First Nations for action.

“This has a lasting impact. Saying sorry is recognising there were wrongdoings. We know this is a part of our history.”

Though brief, the illuminations served as a visible reminder of the importance of recognising the experiences of Stolen Generations survivors and supporting truth-telling, healing, and reconciliation across Australia.

Whilst Adelaide Oval was just one of many landmarks and buildings lit up purple for National Sorry Day, others included:

• the Levens River Bridge in Ulverstone, Tasmania

• the city of Bunbury, Western Australia

• Ocean Street, Victoria

• Manly Northern Beaches, New South Wales

• Quay Street CBD, Rockhampton, Queensland.

National Sorry Day highlights the importance of continued learning about the experiences of Stolen Generations survivors and how recognition can be turned into meaningful action.

The Healing Foundation's provides practical ways individuals, organisations and communities can support truth-telling, healing and lasting change. 

Learn more: https://healingfoundation.org.au/stolen-generations/national-sorry-day/