Parramatta will begin its annual Warami program with a National Sorry Day community gathering at Dharug Circle in Parramatta Square on 26 May, bringing residents together to reflect on the legacy of the Stolen Generations and recognise the enduring strength of First Nations communities.
The free event will run from 10am to 1pm and is expected to include cultural workshops, community activities and opportunities for reflection centred on truth telling, healing and connection.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Martin Zaiter said National Sorry Day remains an important date for communities across Australia as conversations around reconciliation continue to evolve.
“National Sorry Day is an opportunity for our community to come together to reflect on our shared history, honour the strength and resilience of Stolen Generations survivors and reaffirm our commitment to reconciliation,” Cr Zaiter said.
He said Parramatta’s long First Nations history gives the city a distinct cultural identity that continues to shape community life today.
“As one of the world’s oldest places of continuous culture, Parramatta carries a unique story shaped by more than 60,000 years of First Nations history,” he said.
The event will also feature workshops in art, weaving and dance, with organisers encouraging people from all backgrounds to take part and learn more about First Nations cultures and traditions.
National Sorry Day is observed each year on 26 May to acknowledge members of the Stolen Generations, referring to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who were removed from their families under past government policies. The day is recognised nationally as part of broader reconciliation efforts, although discussions around truth telling and historical accountability continue in public and political debate.
The National Sorry Day event will also mark the beginning of the wider Warami program, which returns with six weeks of cultural activities, performances and storytelling across Parramatta. The program has grown in recent years and now includes events at Parramatta Park, PHIVE, Riverside Theatres and local libraries.
Among the major events scheduled is Burramatta NAIDOC, which has become a well attended fixture on Parramatta’s cultural calendar and highlights First Nations music, dance, food and community voices.
Further information about the event and Warami program is available through City of Parramatta
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