Dr Jackie Huggins AM spoke to dozens of Indigenous Community Leaders, students and guests at the Inaugural National Reconciliation Week lunch at St John’s College, within The University of Queensland on May 31, 2022.

Indigenous scholar, elder, activist and author of Sister Girl, Auntie Rita, and Jack of Hearts: QX11594, Dr Jackie Huggins AM spoke about her more than four decades working toward reconciliation and advocating for the rights of Indigenous Australians.

Dr Huggins reminded everyone in attendance that Reconciliation is an ongoing process.

“Reconciliation means three things to me: Recognition, justice and healing. We cannot face the truth of our country until we think about these things,” said Dr Huggins.

I never tire of seeing young people be brave and making change. But there are still many injustices and unfinished business that we need to be brave and change.

In her speech, Dr Huggins spoke about how she witnessed and was involved in historical processes that required her and many others to continually be brave in order to make change.

Dr Huggins spoke about the 1967 Referendum and how over 90% of Australians were brave to vote for change. That Referendum amended the Constitution. As a result, Aboriginal peoples were finally counted in the census and laws were extended to them (instead of varying from state to state).

 Since Warden Ms Rose Alwyn arrived at St John’s College in late 2019, she has made Indigenous engagement and awareness a priority.

“Reconciliation isn’t just a week in the year.  And it isn’t the sole responsibility of Aboriginal people,” Warden Ms Alwyn said.

It is now time we all helped in this important work.  But not just today. Not just this week. But every day, and every week.