NATSICC Acknowledgment Plaques
The first Plaque endorsed by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference for use in Catholic schools, Parishes and Organisations, the NATSICC Acknowledgment Plaques are a bold statement of support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Displaying the Plaque proudly in a prominent position in your Parish, School or Organisation is a physical sign of Welcome and Understanding for all Australians. It also provides the opportunity to educate the wider community of the need for continual progress on the ongoing journey of Reconciliation.
By purchasing and displaying our Acknowledgment Plaque you are sharing the vision of The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council - that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples will be included in the prayers and thoughts of all Australian Catholics. Those displaying the Plaques (or any other Acknowledgment Plaque) will be listed as a Partner in Faith.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The practice of inclusion forms an important part of rebuilding the relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and non Indigenous Australians. The erection of a plaque or sign at the Church is a symbol of welcome for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and an acknowledgment that there is an understanding of Australia’s past.
An Acknowledgment of Traditional Custodians must be seen in the context in which ‘Country’ is understood by Australia’s first people. Professor Mick Dodson explains this relationship -
“For us, Country is a word for all the values, places, resources, stories and cultural obligations associated with that area and its features. It describes the entirety of our ancestral domains.”
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The main logo on the plaque was designed by the Murri Ministry (Brisbane, Queensland) to depict black and white coming together and growing in faith and respect for one another. Aboriginal artwork has, for thousands of years, used symbolism to display deep and complex concepts that are interpreted through the lens of culture and spirituality learned from Elders. The plaque artwork uses colour as a simplified point of difference to symbolise all of the diversity and gifts of humankind
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Yes. The Plaques are printed on an aluminum substrate and feature a clear coat similar to that used on cars - protecting it from the elements.
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Again, yes. For orders of 10 or more, NATSICC can add your own organisation's logo to the plaque. The customisation is available via negotiation and may incur an additional cost.
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The whole premise of the plaques is to make the Catholic Church a welcoming place for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. With this in mind, consider using the unveiling as an opportunity to invite, meet and form a relationship with your local Traditional Custodians. Given the differences between language groups nationally, it is always best practice to involve your local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community in the planning of the ceremony. Local contacts can be found at Your State and Territory.
Other Suggestions for the unveiling:
Each plaque will be accompanied by a letter from NATSICC that outlines the importance of Acknowledgment. Excerpts from this letter could be read out.
The Guide to Welcome to Country and Acknowledgment of Country Ceremonies has been produced by NATSICC and the Bishops Conference to assist parishes, schools and organisations to plan appropriate and thoughtful events.
The 2018 NATSICC Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Sunday Resource kit is a great resource for holding masses and celebrations in congregations with and without Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
The videos below could be shown. They, along with others at NATSICC TV, give an insight into the role of NATSICC in the Church and the role that faith plays in Traditional Culture.
Partners in Faith
All Parishes, Schools and Organisations that display this Plaque, or any other form of Acknowledgment will be become a Partner in Faith with NATSICC and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholics.
Click below on a State/Territory for a list of our Parish / School Partners in Faith.
