Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country
Understanding the Significance
Many Australians are familiar with the practice of acknowledging the traditional custodians of the land at the beginning of meetings, events, or gatherings. This practice, known as Welcome to Country or Acknowledgement of Country, holds deep cultural significance and serves as a gesture of respect and recognition.Welcome to Country
An authentic Welcome to Country is a sacred ceremony performed by the traditional owners of the land on which an event is being held. It involves storytelling, song, and dance and acknowledges the ongoing connection between the First Nations people and their ancestral lands. The Welcome to Country recognizes the cultural authority and sovereignty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and creates a respectful and inclusive space for all attendees.Acknowledgement of Country
An Acknowledgement of Country is a less formal expression of respect that can be delivered by non-Indigenous individuals or organizations. It acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land and expresses appreciation for their ongoing connection to it. An Acknowledgement of Country can be delivered verbally or in written form and should be respectful and inclusive.
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