Learn more: how to register online to watch video stories on Indigenous Literacy Day, watch a video introduction from Jessica Mauboy.
Experience the Beauty of Indigenous Languages on Indigenous Literacy Day
Wednesday 1 September is Indigenous Literacy Day. The day provides the opportunity to spend some time enjoying the rich language traditions of some of our Indigenous Australians. This celebratory day also is an awareness-raising day to provide support to enhance Aboriginal literacy.
In past years, we have held Book Swap events in support of this important day. This year, as a family, it could be great to spend a little time on the Indigenous Literacy Foundation website, listening to, supporting and learning what we can about the importance of literacy.
What is Happening on Indigenous Literacy Day in 2021?
We’re Celebrating Stories and Language Online.
‘This year, we are hosting a free virtual celebration for all Australians going live from 9am Wednesday 1 September. Through storytelling, ILD provides a window into the richness, diversity and multilingual world of First Nations peoples with a selection of short, two minute, inspiring video stories by First Nations storytellers (of all ages) from across the country.’ – Indigenous Literacy Foundation website.
How Do I Watch Video Stories on Indigenous Literacy Day?
There are great video clips and stories to watch on the Indigenous Literacy Foundation website. Learn how to register by watching Jessica Mauboy (singer, songwriter, actress and Indigenous Literacy Foundation ambassador!) introduce this wonderful day.
*Did you spot a former Waverley College school sports jacket being worn by one of the Indigenous students in this clip?
Watch Indigenous Literacy Day below:
We hope you enjoy International Literacy Day this year. Don’t forget, it’s live from 9am!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEuzcIQd7vY
Mr William Roberts
Head of Library Services
E: wroberts@waverley.nsw.edu.au
More About Indigenous Literacy Day From Quinn House
Indigenous Literacy Day is a day designed to celebrate and advocate for the importance of providing children in remote communities with the opportunity and resources to connect with the richness, diversity and multilingual world of our First Nations People.
As mentioned, our College has previously celebrated Indigenous Literacy Day with The Great Book Swap and we have also connected with Jarjum School in Redfern for a virtual reading program between students. In 2020, Quinn House and the College Library raised funds to purchase culturally-relevant books for remote communities in their first language.
Due to COVID-19, this year The Indigenous Literacy Foundation has organised an online event called ‘Celebrating Stories and Language.’ The program caters for both Senior and Junior School students, and includes stories being read and shared by Elders in remote communities, famous Indigenous Australians and children.
In addition to the College’s range of Aboriginal-themed literature in print, audio and eform, we encourage you to reach out to your local library and become an online member, and explore their Indigenous catalogue. The Waverley Council Library has suitable books available for primary-aged students, young adult fiction for teenagers, and non-fiction stories, experiences and accounts for those looking to deepen their understanding and appreciation of our First Nations People.
Happy Reading!
Ms Olivia Kite and Quinn House
Head of House and HSIE Teacher
E: okite@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Quinn students including Quinn House Captain Dane Perica preparing to read to and listen to the students from Jarjum College in Redfern on Indigenous Literacy Day 2020
Lucas Ryan reading to Year 1 students at Jarjum College in Redfern on Indigenous Literacy Day 2020
