The critical place of First Nations peoples in Queensland’s history and the stories that contribute to the state’s identity has been showcased today at the launch of Queensland Museum Network’s first Reconciliation Action Plan.
In attending the launch of the Reconciliation Action at Queensland Museum today, Minister for the Arts and Minister for Science Leeanne Enoch said this was an important step for the Museum as Queensland works towards reconciliation.
“A path towards reconciliation is an essential journey for cultural institutions, and this Plan from Queensland Museum will help ensure traditional knowledge and cultural practices are reflected in the Museum’s practice,” she said.
“Reconciliation Action Plans are important mechanisms to acknowledge the past and provide a commitment to work together to Close the Gap.
“The Palaszczuk Government knows how important this journey is and has started a journey towards negotiated treaties with First Nations people, through the Path to Treaty.”
Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Partnerships Jackie Trad said the Palaszczuk Government was committed to setting a foundation for new and just relationships.
“Submissions are currently open on our Government’s Path to Treaty in Queensland consultation paper, which is helping guide meaningful conversations between all Queenslanders,” Ms Trad said.
“Path to Treaty is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build relationships, further promote reconciliation and foster shared pride in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island culture and heritage.”
Minister Enoch said Path to Treaty, and Reconciliation Action Plans, help to put Queensland on a path toward meaningful, impactful partnerships.
“They help build a future that acknowledges the true and ancient history of our state, reconciles the past and strengthens the way to greater reconciliation, self determination and a more inclusive, respectful shared future.”
Queensland Museum Network CEO Dr Jim Thompson said the Queensland Museum Network joined thousands of organisations on the journey towards reconciliation for all Australians.
“We are very proud to launch our first Reconciliation Action Plan today as we apologise for the actions of our past, focus on relationships, respect and opportunities, and outline the actions the Network will commit to undertaking to establish the right foundations for sustainable change,” Dr Thompson said.
“Historically some past practices of museums were not respectful to Aboriginal Peoples and Torres Strait Islanders, however we now look to right these wrongs, and embrace a more inclusive and celebrated future.
“The Reconciliation Action Plan will ensure the next stage of our story is more meaningful and mutually beneficial to improve our relationship with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.”
Queensland Museum Network’s Reconciliation Action Plan can be accessed here: https://network.qm.qld.gov.au/
More information on Path to Treaty can be found: https://www.datsip.qld.gov.au/programs-initiatives/tracks-treaty