NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee. NAIDOC Week is proudly celebrated in Indigenous communities and each year more broadly in all communities, government agencies, schools, local councils and workplaces. Visit NAIDOC for more detail about this significant celebration.
In recent years there has been a nominated theme for NAIDOC Day. The Theme for NAIDOC 2023 is “For Our Elders”, which represents a recognition of the significant and contributions of the older generations, who are the custodians of traditional knowledge, culture, and wisdom.
In Indigenous cultures, elders play a crucial role in their communities. They are highly respected for their life experiences, their deep understanding of the land and its stories, and their connection to the ancestral heritage.
Elders are often considered the keepers of tradition, passing down oral history, rituals, ceremonies, and cultural practices to younger generations. The phrase "For Our Elders" embodies a commitment to honoring and acknowledging the guidance, teachings, and sacrifices of those who came before us.
It emphasizes the importance of listening to and learning from the wisdom and experiences of elders. It encourages younger generations to cherish and preserve their cultural heritage, language, and customs.
