Global gathering finds ways of healing

Local and international indigenous communities will come together to share knowledge and experiences at the Healing our Spirit Worldwide conference at the International Convention Centre (ICC) Sydney from 26–29 November.

Hosted by the University of Sydney and The Healing Foundation, the event fosters cultural learning by sharing stories and strategies to address the chronic challenges facing many indigenous communities.

Healing our Spirit Worldwide will explore global experiences of colonialism and how indigenous communities can draw on their knowledge and culture to encourage healing and resilience in urban environments.

The City of Sydney is supporting the conference with $10,000 in cash sponsorship.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the sponsorship shows the City’s continuing commitment to working alongside our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.

“We are proud to welcome indigenous representatives from around the world to the Healing our Spirit Worldwide conference in Sydney. It will be a wonderful opportunity for participants to share cultural knowledge, experiences and stories with each other.”

Professor Juanita Sherwood from the University of Sydney said the conference recognises that healing is an important step towards achieving reconciliation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

“Healing our Spirit Worldwide will celebrate the diversity, resilience and vibrancy of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities as well as indigenous communities globally, and provide an opportunity to share our stories, history, successes and culture,” said Professor Sherwood.

“By highlighting insights in overcoming the many issues that face indigenous peoples around the world, we can help our people heal and create a different future.

“We’re proud to be able to invite the people of Sydney to join us and share in this unique event.”

The Healing our Spirit Worldwide conference is expected to attract 1,500 international delegates from indigenous communities from Canada, USA, Norway, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

The formal program includes panel discussions and workshops focussed on healing and health in connection to family, culture and country.

The event also features The Gathering Place, a free central hub open to the general public over the four days, that includes market stalls profiling Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses, and a performance space showcasing music, dance and theatre talent.

For media inquiries or images, contact the City of Sydney media team. Phone 0448 005 718 or email [email protected]

For interviews with Lord Mayor Clover Moore, contact Anusha Muller. Phone 0408 494 545 or email [email protected]