Every year on May 26, Australians pause to reflect on one of the most painful chapters in their national history—the forced removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families, known as the Stolen Generations. National Sorry Day is not just a date on the calendar; it is a heartfelt acknowledgment of past injustices and a national step toward healing, reconciliation, and unity.
📜 History of National Sorry Day
National Sorry Day was first observed in 1998, exactly one year after the landmark “Bringing Them Home” report was tabled in the Australian Parliament on May 26, 1997. This report was the result of a comprehensive inquiry by the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, led by Sir Ronald Wilson and Mick Dodson. It documented the widespread government policy of forcibly removing Indigenous children from their families between 1910 and the 1970s.
These children, known as the Stolen Generations, were placed in institutions or with white foster families, often experiencing neglect, abuse, and the erasure of their cultural identity.
The first Sorry Day was marked by community events across the country, signaling a shift in public awareness and sympathy.
🌿 Importance of National Sorry Day
The importance of National Sorry Day lies in its deep commitment to truth-telling and justice. It’s not just a symbolic gesture, but a crucial step in the ongoing journey of reconciliation between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians.
By acknowledging the harm inflicted on Indigenous communities, the day calls for healing, education, empathy, and most importantly, meaningful change.
🔍 Significance of the Day
National Sorry Day stands as a reminder of systemic oppression, colonization, and the resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Its significance extends beyond apologies—it symbolizes:
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Recognition of historical truths
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Support for survivors and their descendants
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Promotion of cultural respect
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Driving national conversations about justice and equality
The 2008 National Apology by then Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, delivered in Parliament, remains a historic moment tied to this day. His words, “We say sorry,” echoed throughout the country and continue to resonate as a commitment to right past wrongs.
🎯 Why is National Sorry Day Celebrated?
National Sorry Day is celebrated to:
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Acknowledge the suffering of the Stolen Generations
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Educate the broader community about Australia’s dark history
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Encourage public discourse on Indigenous rights
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Promote healing within families and communities
It serves as a bridge toward Reconciliation Week (May 27–June 3), further emphasizing the need for national unity and truth.
🎉 How is it Celebrated?
Across Australia, National Sorry Day is marked with:
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Ceremonies and commemorative events
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Candlelight vigils and silent walks
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Public speeches by survivors and community leaders
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School and university programs focused on Indigenous history
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Planting of native species, especially the Native Hibiscus (symbol of the day)
Many local councils and organizations host healing ceremonies, and community gatherings where songs, dances, and stories are shared.
🤝 Citizen Involvement: Making the Day a Success
Australians from all backgrounds are encouraged to:
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Attend Sorry Day events
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Participate in yarning circles or cultural workshops
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Wear the Native Hibiscus flower as a symbol of remembrance
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Share educational content on social media
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Read or listen to stories of the Stolen Generations
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Engage in conversations about truth and reconciliation
Citizens play a crucial role in amplifying Indigenous voices and supporting healing processes.
Read More; National Paper Airplane Day
🎨 National Sorry Day Theme 2025:
“Truth, Healing, and Respect: The Path Forward Together”
This year’s theme emphasizes the continued need for national truth-telling, community-led healing, and mutual respect to build a unified and just Australia.
🗣️ 10 Famous Quotes for National Sorry Day
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“We say sorry.” — Kevin Rudd, 2008 National Apology
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“The pain is real. The grief is deep. The truth is necessary.” — Linda Burney
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“Healing begins with acknowledging the truth.” — Mick Dodson
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“Sorry is a start; justice is the journey.” — Unknown
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“You can’t know where you’re going until you know where you’ve been.” — Maya Angelou
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“We are all part of the story. Let’s write a better chapter.” — Unknown
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“Truth must be spoken before reconciliation can be real.” — Ronald Wilson
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“This land remembers the cries of its children. Let us not forget.” — Unknown
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“The greatest act of courage is to listen to pain without turning away.” — Unknown
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“Reconciliation means walking together to a better future.” — Paul Keating
❓FAQs about National Sorry Day
Q1. What is National Sorry Day?
A: National Sorry Day is observed on May 26 each year to remember and acknowledge the Stolen Generations—Indigenous children forcibly removed from their families by government policies.
Q2. When did National Sorry Day start?
A: It began on May 26, 1998, one year after the Bringing Them Home report was released.
Q3. Who initiated the report that led to Sorry Day?
A: The Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, led by Sir Ronald Wilson and Mick Dodson.
Q4. Why is it called “Sorry” Day?
A: It symbolizes a national apology and recognition of the harm caused to Indigenous communities.
Q5. Is Sorry Day a public holiday?
A: No, it is not a public holiday but is commemorated nationwide.
Q6. What is the Native Hibiscus Flower’s significance?
A: It represents the resilience and spirit of the Stolen Generations.
Q7. What is the link between Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week?
A: Sorry Day marks the beginning of Reconciliation Week, which runs from May 27 to June 3.
Q8. What can I do to participate?
A: Attend events, educate yourself and others, wear a hibiscus pin, and support Indigenous communities.
Q9. What is the Bringing Them Home report?
A: A 1997 report documenting the experiences of the Stolen Generations and recommending justice and healing actions.
Q10. Has an official apology been given?
A: Yes, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd delivered a formal apology in 2008.
🌏 Conclusion
National Sorry Day is not a day of celebration but of reflection, recognition, and responsibility. It asks us to listen deeply, to learn humbly, and to walk forward together in the spirit of reconciliation.
As Australians continue this healing journey, National Sorry Day serves as a poignant reminder: acknowledging the truth of our past is the first step toward building a more just and united future.
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