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June
2026 / 06 / 01
Festival

Reconciliation Day

**Introduction**
Reconciliation Day is a public holiday in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), observed on the Monday on or after 27 May each year. It aims to promote reconciliation, respect, and understanding between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples (the First Australians) and non-Indigenous Australians. The holiday originates from the broader National Reconciliation Week (27 May to 3 June). The key date, 27 May, commemorates the 1967 referendum, where an overwhelming majority of Australians voted to include Aboriginal people in the census and give the federal government power to make laws for them—a significant milestone in Australia's reconciliation journey.
Reconciliation Day is not just a day off but a day for reflection, education, and dialogue. Typical celebrations include participating in community events, cultural workshops, Indigenous art exhibitions, traditional dance and music performances, smoking ceremonies, and discussions about truthful history. It encourages Australians to acknowledge the enduring value and contributions of First Nations cultures, recognize the pain caused by colonial history, and work together towards a more equitable and inclusive future. The day emphasizes that reconciliation is an ongoing process requiring active participation and commitment from sectors of society.

**PR Suggestions**
Businesses can leverage Reconciliation Day for sincere and meaningful public relations. The core should be "listening and learning," not mere marketing. Recommended actions include: issuing a statement supporting the reconciliation process and committing to internal policies promoting cultural diversity and inclusion; collaborating with local Indigenous communities or artists to host cultural awareness events or sponsor community projects; using social media platforms to share educational content about Indigenous history and culture and encouraging employees to share their learnings. communications should avoid being superficial and must demonstrate deep respect for Indigenous cultures and a genuine commitment to long-term support. Companies can use this as an opportunity to showcase their social responsibility and build an inclusive brand image, but it is crucial to ensure actions align with messaging to build authentic trust.

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