National Reconciliation Week: Reconciliation Takes Action

With a strong focus on taking braver and more impactful action, this year’s National Reconciliation Week theme is ‘More than a word. Reconciliation takes action’.

Maara Collective by Julie Shaw, designer in the Pathways Program

To formalise our support for bringing a First Nations Voice to Parliament in the Australian Constitution, we are pleased to share that we have formally accepted the Uluru Statement from the Heart and submitted a response to the Australian Government as part of the Indigenous Voice Co-design Process.

In doing so, we hope to see a fair and practical outcome for recognition and reform for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through Parliament – giving them a say on policies and laws that impact their lives and in turn, create better outcomes for Indigenous people.

Learn more about the Uluru Statement

“At its heart, reconciliation is about what happens in the simplest of terms of where we live, where we learn, where we work and where we socialise.”

Karen Mudine, CEO of Reconciliation Australia

Additionally, David Jones would like to acknowledge Reconciliation Australia’s 20 year anniversary and their ongoing efforts to help bridge the gap, overcome racism, and create equal opportunities for all First Nations and non-Indigenous Australians.

Ngali by Denni Francisco, designer in the Pathways Program

The Pathways Program

Passionate about supporting diverse design perspectives, David Jones is proud to partner with the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Foundation (DAAFF) to present the Pathways Program for First Nations designers.

An ongoing initiative with the goal of creating a future Australian fashion industry that is more inclusive and representative of Indigenous design and culture, six First Nations fashion brands have been paired with established Australian design mentors, supporting business development and cultural exchange.

This AfterPay Australian Fashion Week, David Jones will present the Indigenous Fashion Projects Runway in partnership with the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Foundation. Curated by Perina Drummond, the runway will showcase the collections from MAARA Collective, Native Swimwear Australia, Ngali, Liandra Swim, Indii Swimwear and Kirrikin.

Held on Gadigal Country, the show pays homage to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women from across Australia, celebrating their unique stories and journeys, rich cultural heritage and innovative designs.