Acknowledging the Anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations

Today, February 13, marks the anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations—a momentous day in Australia’s history that acknowledged the pain and trauma caused by past government policies of forced child removal and assimilation.

On this day in 2008, the Australian Government formally apologised to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, recognising the deep and lasting harm caused by the removal of children from their families, culture, and communities. While this apology was an important step towards healing, the journey is far from over.

Why This Day Matters

For many Stolen Generations survivors, this day serves as both a painful reminder and a source of strength. As Shannan Dodson (Yawuru), CEO of the Healing Foundation, explains:

“I think that what is needed is particularly for all Australians to educate themselves about the Stolen Generations and the impact that it still has today…. because we can never forget that this has happened in our country.”

The effects of these policies are still felt today, with survivors and their descendants carrying the weight of trauma, loss, and disconnection from culture. Many survivors have never received compensation, and some still struggle to access their own personal records.

“We’re still seeing that aged care services are at risk of retraumatising Stolen Generations survivors, and we just cannot risk that. And we cannot risk the loss of these Stolen Generations organisations that provide that support, not only to survivors, but also to families, to descendants who continue to carry the weight of the experiences of those survivors.”

The Importance of Continued Action

Acknowledging the past is just one part of reconciliation. It is vital that we continue working towards real solutions, ensuring that survivors and their families receive the recognition, support, and justice they deserve. As Dodson emphasises:

“It is really up to all of us to understand the urgency and the need to ensure that those recommendations are implemented fully—not in five years, not in 10 or 20, but now.”

How You Can Support

• Educate Yourself – Learn about the history and ongoing impact of the Stolen Generations. Resources like The Healing Foundation provide valuable insights.
• Listen to Survivors’ Stories – Acknowledging and amplifying the voices of Stolen Generations survivors is essential to understanding the depth of their experiences.
• Support First Nations-Led Organisations – Many organisations work tirelessly to provide services, healing programs, and advocacy for those affected.
• Reflect and Engage – Take time to reflect on what this day means and how we, as individuals and a community, can contribute to a more just and inclusive future.

Moving Forward Together

While the National Apology was a significant milestone, the work of healing, reconciliation, and justice is ongoing. Today, let’s honour the resilience of Stolen Generations survivors by committing to understanding, supporting, and standing alongside them on the path toward healing.