By National Program Manager, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Program, Justin McCaul

NAIDOC Week occurs around Australia in the first week of July each year and is a week to recognise and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culture and contribution to Australia as a nation.

The National Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) celebration has a long history, emerging alongside protests and activism from the 1930s to the 1960s for greater recognition of the rights and better treat for Australia’s First Peoples.

Since the 1980s it has cemented itself on the national calendar as a nationwide series of events culminating in the annual NAIDOC Awards Ceremony where achievements by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are recognised in a wide range of fields – arts, youth, sports, academic, conservation and land management. Major recognition is given to male and female Elder of the Year and Person of the Year.

On Friday 10 July in capital cities and small towns there are community marches, BBQs, performances, cultural activities and displays so check out the NAIDOC Week website for details on what is happening in your part of Australia.

Oxfam staff will be attending as many events as we can during the week to show our support for Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Thanks and have a happy NAIDOC Week!