Sherrie’s story shows reconciliation in action

Honouring culture and connection through Sherrie’s reconciliation story

As we celebrate Reconciliation Week this month, and look forward to NAIDOC Week in July, we have asked some of our RAP Working Group members to tell us more about their connections to our First Nations communities and culture, and what inspires them. We start with Sherrie's story and perspective with others to come in future editions.

Thanks to Care Manager Sherrie Gaul for sharing her story with us here, and her work on our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

I am a proud Aboriginal woman, my connection is through Anaiwan – location Tingha. I reside on Biripi Land – Mid Coast of NSW. I have a strong connection to Biripi people through work and personal activities.

What does reconciliation mean to you?

Reconciliation means building a respectful relationship with truthful understanding. Acknowledging the past and recognising the strength and resilience of our First Nations people and working together to build a better future which is fair for everyone.

What do you wish more people knew about First Nations peoples or culture?

I wish more people knew that First Nations cultures are the oldest cultures in the world and are rich in knowledge, language, values and connection to country.

As a member of integratedliving's  RAP Working Group, what do you want people to know about the plan and what it means?

I want people to know that the Reconciliation Action Plan is more than just words on paper. It is a commitment to putting forward meaningful action, learning and creating opportunities to show that we as an organisation respect what we are learning and saying and actually do things to ensure First Nations people are respected, included and valued across the organisation and communities.

What significance does NAIDOC Week hold for you?

NAIDOC Week is a time to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It’s a time for reflection, pride and sharing culture with others while recognising the strength of the communities where we work and live. Where I live, it is celebrated with beautiful traditions at a well-known Aboriginal gathering place.