NAIDOC Week, celebrated annually in Australia, honours the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
The origins of NAIDOC (National Aboriginal and Islanders Day Observance Committee) Week date back to the 1920s, during a period of significant political activism by Aboriginal groups seeking to address injustices and inequality faced by Indigenous Australians.
One of the prominent figures of this era was Fred Maynard, a key activist who founded the Australian Aboriginal Progressive Association (AAPA) in 1924. The AAPA was the first organised, politically oriented group aimed at advocating for Aboriginal rights. It focused on issues such as land rights, the protection of children from forced removals, and the preservation of Aboriginal culture and identity. The AAPA’s activism was instrumental in bringing attention to the plight of Aboriginal people, challenging government policies, and fighting for basic human rights.
1938, Day of Mourning
This period laid the groundwork for future movements and events, including the 1938 Day of Mourning, which eventually led to the establishment of NAIDOC Week.
In 1938, William Cooper, a prominent Aboriginal leader, and the Australian Aborigines League, organised a Day of Mourning to mark the 150th anniversary of British colonisation. This protest aimed to draw attention to the mistreatment of Aboriginal peoples and called for equal rights and recognition. The Day of Mourning was a pivotal event, leading to annual observances and increased awareness of Aboriginal rights.
In 1955, the observance was shifted from January to July, marking the beginning of what is now known as NAIDOC Week. The date change allowed for greater participation and symbolised a broader recognition of Aboriginal culture and contributions to Australian society. The National Aboriginal Day Committee was formed in 1957, later evolving into the National Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC).
Each year, NAIDOC Week adopts a specific theme to highlight different aspects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, history, and current issues.
NAIDOC Week has grown over the decades, now encompassing a wide range of activities, including cultural performances, art exhibitions, educational events, and community gatherings. It provides an opportunity for all Australians to learn about and engage with the rich cultural heritage of the country’s Indigenous peoples, fostering understanding and reconciliation.
The theme for NAIDOC Week 2024, "Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud"
This echoes the resilience and vibrant spirit of Indigenous communities, urging both Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians to acknowledge and promote Indigenous culture and contributions.
The theme "Keep the Fire Burning!" acts as a powerful metaphor, inspiring ongoing passion and dedication to cultural preservation and rights advocacy. "Blak, Loud and Proud" not only embraces a reclamation of identity with the term "Blak," but also emphasises the importance of voice and visibility in the Indigenous community. It's a call to be bold, to celebrate identity, and to ensure that the voices of Indigenous peoples are heard and respected.
During NAIDOC Week, events across the nation provide opportunities for all Australians to participate in cultural exchanges and to deepen their understanding of Indigenous cultural practices. These events range from traditional music and dance performances to art exhibitions, sporting competitions, and community festivals. Each event is an opportunity to engage with the themes of NAIDOC Week, reflecting on how each of us can contribute to supporting and celebrating Indigenous cultures.
Education plays a critical role during NAIDOC Week as schools and educational institutions participate by hosting assemblies, workshops, and activities that focus on the history and culture of Indigenous Australians. These educational initiatives are crucial for fostering a greater understanding and respect among young Australians, building a foundation of reconciliation and mutual respect.
Importantly, NAIDOC Week is not only a celebration but also a platform for Indigenous people to voice their issues and solutions. It's a time when focus shifts towards the steps that can be taken to address the challenges facing Indigenous communities, from land rights and health disparities to social justice and equity.
NAIDOC Week ends with awards that recognise the contributions of outstanding Indigenous individuals in areas such as art, academia, community service, and sport. These accolades highlight the achievements of individuals who exemplify the spirit of the 2024 theme, showcasing the dynamic and enduring contributions of Indigenous Australians to the nation.
By engaging with the theme "Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud," NAIDOC Week 2024 aims not just to celebrate, but to energise ongoing advocacy and pride in Indigenous culture, ensuring that the fire of Indigenous spirit continues to illuminate the path toward a more inclusive and respectful Australia.
5 NAIDOC Week questions for the classroom
- What does NAIDOC stand for?
- What event were the origins of NAIDOC Week and what year did this occur?
- How has NAIDOC Week evolved?
- What is this years theme for NAIDOC Week and what does it mean?
- How does NAIDOC Week contribute to the understanding and reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians?
Please also see our Education Resources