YMCA Kurwongbah OSHC

Our vision for reconciliation is that Kurwongbah YMCA is a place where children, young people, families, educators and community members walk together with respect, honesty and hope. We aspire to nurture a learning environment where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples histories, cultures, knowledges and rights are valued, celebrated and embedded in our everyday practice.   We believe reconciliation begins with truth-telling. We are committed to understanding and acknowledging the ongoing impacts of colonisation, listening deeply to the voices of First Nations peoples, and reflecting on our own responsibilities in shaping a more just and equitable future. We recognise the Gubbi Gubbi people as the Traditional Custodians of the Land on which we learn, work, and play, and we honour their unbroken connections to Country, community and culture.   As an OSHC community, our role is to foster a sense of belonging for every child, and to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families feel culturally safe, respected and represented. We will work collaboratively with local Elders, community organisations, families and the school community to build meaningful relationships grounded in trust and reciprocity.  Through ongoing learning, reflection and action, we strive to build a community where everyone understands their role in reconciliation where equity is championed, the cultural diversity of First Nations peoples is acknowledged, and all Australians are empowered to contribute to positive change. Our commitment is to ensure reconciliation is lived daily in our programs, environments, relationships and decision-making, so that the next generation grows with pride, knowledge and respect for the First Peoples of Australia.