Walk for Truth

On Wednesday June 18 Sacred Heart Mission staff joined over 3,000 people for the final leg of the Yoorrook Justice Commission’s Walk for Truth from King’s domain to the Victorian Parliament.

Over the last 4 years the Yoorook Justice Commission has been engaging in truth telling with First Nations people from around Victoria, collecting evidence on the impacts of colonisation and systemic injustice, as well as the strength, resistance and achievements of First Nations peoples.

The historic 25 day walk, led by Yoorrook Commissioner Travis Lovett, aimed to raise awareness of the Commission’s historic work.  The walk started near Portland on Gunditjmara Country and covered over 500km – nearly half the state.

Alice Crowley, Strategic Advisor for Sacred Heart Mission, was one of the staff members who attended the walk.

“It was wonderful to walk alongside colleagues, other allies, and First Peoples from across Victoria in an inspiring and historic event. We gathered on the cool damp grass, typical of the season known as ‘Waring’ in Woi Wurrung language and started our walk by passing through cleansing smoke from lemon scented gum. We heard from First Nations Leaders and honoured the people who shared their truth to the commission” says Alice.

Sacred Heart Mission strongly supports the Uluru Statement from the Heart and its key themes of Voice, Treaty and Truth-telling. Strategy 2030 and its commitment to prioritising First Nations self-determination is evident of our support of  Voice. Our support for Yoorrook and attending events like the Walk for Truth demonstrates our commitment to Truth-telling and we support and watch closely for the next steps for a Treaty in Victoria. As a Victorian organisation with many First Nations people among those we work with, we’re committed to strengthening our relationships with First Nations communities and organisations, and to being active allies .

“Truth telling is one of three pillars described in the Uluru Statement from the Heart and a critical part of the Treaty process taking place in Victoria,” says Alice. “I’m so grateful to Sacred Heart Mission for the support and encouragement to be part of this event, putting commitment into action”.

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Yoorrook’s final report was delivered to the government in the days after the walks end and is expected to be made public sometime this month.