This first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) is part of the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation and a formal acknowledgement to recognise First Nations peoples as Traditional Owners and Custodians.
The cover of the Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan features the beautiful artwork Binak Etching by Aunty Kim Wandin who is a Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung woman living in Healesville. Aunty Kim is an artist and master weaver who learnt to make baskets and eel traps from her grandmother. Binak Etching represents the weaving together of community through togetherness and collaboration.
The Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer Peter Walton said, “Our Reflect RAP is more than just a document. It is a testament to our commitment to fostering meaningful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander people.
“It is our pledge to listen, learn and act in ways that promote equity and respect. Reflect lays the groundwork for our reconciliation journey.”
Since the launch the Foundation has conducted a review of cultural learning needs for staff and Board members, implementing a range of activities to enable this learning. The Foundation has also joined Philanthropy Australia’s First Nations Funders Group and the Australian Environmental Granters Network’s Indigenous Land and Sea Funders Network to learn more about best practice philanthropy in partnership with First Nations organisations.