Come and celebrate the achievements of Victorian Indigenous communities.

A mock Referendum ballot, Indigenous performances and a panel discussion by Victorian Elders will feature in a community event ‘‘Their Spirit Still Shines in Victoria’ to celebrate Indigenous culture.

2007 marks the 40th anniversary of the 1967 referendum, when more than 90% of Australians voted to remove clauses from the constitution which discriminated against Indigenous people. August 10 is the day that this referendum legislation was enacted in Federal parliament.

Reconciliation Victoria, the City of Melbourne, the City of Yarra and the Victorian Department of Education, with support from key metropolitan Local Councils will host this free Community Day on Friday August 10 at Federation Square.

Interactive workshops and performances designed for schools groups will run alongside entertainment and educational resources for local council groups, community organisations and the general public. This partnership event will raise awareness about the Referendum, highlight the achievements of the Indigenous community and look to the onward journey to achieve social justice for Indigenous people into the future.

Featuring music acts from Kutcha Edwards, Lou Bennett, Richard Franklin and more, as well as school group activities, Traditional dance workshops and a Mock Ballot by the Victorian Electoral Commission.

Illbijerri Theatre Company will be performing excerpts from a play written by John Harding based on the 1967 Referendum movement and 3KND (1503am) will be broadcasting live from the event.

You will also be able to hear a number of Indigenous community members and Elders views of the Referendum and their ideas of the future for Aboriginal people in Victoria, and see a preview screening of a Department of Education funded documentary exploring the impact of the referendum from the perspective of Victorian Elders and young people.

For more information or assistance with arranging group attendance contact Sarah Bond or Julie Warren at Reconciliation Victoria on 9662 1645.