Progressive Therapeutic Collective Celebrates NAIDOC Week 2024
Progressive Therapeutic Collective Celebrates NAIDOC Week 2024: "Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud"
As NAIDOC Week 2024 begins, Progressive Therapeutic Collective stands in solidarity with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, celebrating the empowering theme, "Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud." This theme is a powerful reminder of the enduring strength, vitality, and cultural heritage of First Nations peoples.
NAIDOC Week, held from July 7 to July 14, is a profound opportunity for all Australians to engage with and celebrate the world’s oldest continuous living cultures. This year’s theme underscores the significance of the fire, symbolizing connection to Country, community, and the timeless traditions that have been nurtured and preserved despite countless challenges.
Sarah Newbold, Owner and Senior Counsellor of Progressive Therapeutic Collective, stated:
"'Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud' is not just a theme; it is a movement urging us to amplify Indigenous voices, reclaim narratives, and strive for justice and equality. At Progressive Therapeutic Collective, we are committed to decolonising mental health practices and dismantling the structures of white supremacy that have marginalised Indigenous voices for centuries. Our mission is to support the mental and emotional well-being of Indigenous communities through equitable practices."
Decolonising Mental Health
Decolonisation is at the heart of our mission. It involves dismantling the colonial structures and mindsets that have marginalised Indigenous voices for centuries.
Sarah Newbold continued:
"This NAIDOC Week, we celebrate the rich cultural heritage of First Nations peoples and their unyielding spirit and strength. We are committed to ensuring that Indigenous voices are heard, respected, and valued. We must acknowledge the wisdom of Elders, support Indigenous-led initiatives, and advocate for the rights and recognition of First Nations peoples. We must honor the fire of Blak, Loud, and Proud."
A Call to Action
We invite everyone to join us in their local NAIDOC activities and to stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities. NAIDOC Week is a time for reflection and action. It is a time to listen, learn, and engage in dialogues that foster a society where the wisdom and contributions of Indigenous peoples are fully valued and respected.
In the words of NAIDOC Committee Co-Chair Steven Satour:
"'Blak, Loud and Proud' encapsulates the unapologetic celebration of Indigenous identity, empowering us to stand tall in our heritage and assert our place in the modern world".
Join Progressive Therapeutic Collective in celebrating NAIDOC Week 2024. Together, we can ignite a future where the stories, traditions, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are cherished and celebrated, enriching the fabric of our nation.
For more information on our NAIDOC Week activities or to participate, please visit https://www.naidoc.org.au/