Emmaus College

Emmaus Colleges vision for reconciliation is to foster a culturally safe environment that recognises and respects First Nations peoples, the knowledge they have and the living cultures that have been a part of their histories and experiences. In our shared commitment to grow together we believe that truth telling, and deep authentic listening is needed to gain a greater understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and cultures; as is acknowledging  the true histories of Australia so that what has been broken is allowed to heal. We are also taking action in publicly acknowledging and recognising  First Nations peoples as the ongoing Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land, sky, sea and water ways. These are all important in the reconciling of the wrongs of the past. As a community we are willing and committed to engaging in deeper learning to advance our knowledge of the histories, perspectives and cultures of First Nations peoples. We are committed to learning from First Nations peoples, to developing our understanding through first-hand accounts so this wisdom can guide our practices and policies. We are committed to providing meaningful opportunities for First Nations students to achieve their full potential while maintaining a sense of belonging of place in our college community. Our learnings of the living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their perspectives are respectfully interwoven into our curriculum and teach about why we need to celebrate and honour the significant roles  First Nations peoples have played and continue to play in shaping a shared sense of national unity and identity. The Emmaus College Reconciliation Action Plan is the formal documentation of our communitys commitment to create change. It will hold our community accountable for what we have decided upon and give us a pathway to contribute to the creation of a reconciled Australian home, one in which all voices are heard and respected, where all are free to flourish as this is the plan God had for ALL people.