The 17th Anniversary of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
-
13 September 2024
-
2 min read
-
Alison Bentick
Today marks the 17th Anniversary of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples – a landmark document that recognises the inherent rights of Indigenous peoples worldwide.
As the CEO of NASCA, an organisation embedded in the principles of self-determination and sovereignty, I am proud to reflect on how this international declaration aligns with our mandate and the progress we have made together.
NASCA continues to stand as a testament to the strength and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Post-colonisation we have endured challenges and obstacles, but none has diminished our will and commitment to self-determine and decide our futures. This crucial right to self-determination and self-governance is echoed throughout all of our sites across New South Wales and The Northern Territory. At NASCA, we are 100% Indigenous-governed and led. Our Board, Leadership Team, and over 93% of our program staff are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals who embody the perseverance and ingenuity of our people.
As we celebrate this anniversary, we recognise that NASCA is not only sustaining, but strengthening the very fabric of self-determination through the work we do every day. Our programs aren’t just about creating opportunities in education; they’re about nurturing our young people’s understanding of their cultural heritage and equipping them with the skills and confidence necessary to thrive at school and beyond.
When I reflect on this day, and what it means for all Indigenous peoples across the globe, it fills me with pride knowing that I get to do this important work every single day.
At NASCA we want so much more for our future generations. I want our young people to do more than simply survive, I want them to thrive, that is why I am so proud of the work our program staff do every single day, they are equipping the next generation for leadership positions within and beyond our communities. They are fostering the next generation of trailblazers who will walk in the footsteps of our ancestors and lead us into the future with dignity and pride.
