The University of Sydney leads on reconciliation

1 June 2006

Australia's first university, the University of Sydney, has underlined its commitment to Indigenous issues with the release of a formal undertaking in the form of a Reconciliation Statement.

The University's Reconciliation Statement, which has been developed after extensive consultation with indigenous communities, was launched today during Reconciliation Week.

Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Gavin Brown, says the University is committed to creating an environment in which the rich and diverse cultures on Indigenous Australians are known, promoted and celebrated.

"It is our firm belief that no student from this University should graduate without some understanding of the oldest culture in the world," Professor Brown said.

The reconciliation ceremony began with a Welcome to Country by Cadigal Elder Charles Madden. The Vice-Chancellor received endorsement from representatives of the traditional owners to continue to conduct 'educational business' on Aboriginal lands.

Professor Brown then launched the University of Sydney 'Reconciliation Statement' before local Aboriginal groups and invited guests at the ceremonial heart of the University - the centre of the University Quadrangle.

Phil Glendenning, Director of the Edmund Rice Centre and the National President of Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation (ANTaR), spoke about the importance of reconciliation between Australia's "first people" and Australia's "first university". The ceremony concluded with a performance by the Erskineville Aboriginal Dance Group.

Contact: Kath Kenny

Phone: Ph: +61 2 9351 4312 or M: 0434 606 100