Respect Victoria is proud to launch its first Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), formalising a continued commitment to reconciliation and self-determination.
The Reflect RAP lays the foundation for addressing reconciliation as a core aspect of Respect Victoria’s work, and acknowledges the impacts of white settlement, colonisation and the violent dispossession of land, cultures and children.
“With humility and respect, we acknowledge we have much to learn from more than 60,000 years of continuous culture,” said Respect Victoria Chair Dr Kate Fitz-Gibbon.
“The primary prevention of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander family violence and violence against First Nations women must be led by First Nations peoples.”
The RAP sets clear intentions for the organisation over the coming 12 months, with a process guided by Reconciliation Australia.
“Respect and reconciliation go hand in hand and are integral pieces of the puzzle when it comes to preventing family violence and violence against women,” said Respect Victoria Acting CEO Amy Prendergast.
“With the Reflect RAP, Respect Victoria commits to being an authentic ally in the journey towards reconciliation, and to ensure that reconciliation is forefront in our work.”
Respect Victoria’s Reflect RAP will set the organisation up for future RAPs and reconciliation initiatives, with an emphasis on looking to the leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, communities and organisations who have led family violence prevention work for decades.
Respect Victoria’s approach to self-determination in addressing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander family violence is led by a commitment to Dhelk Dja: Safe Our Way - Strong Culture, Strong Peoples, Strong Families.