This year, Australians will vote in a referendum for a First Nations Voice to Parliament. Diversity and First Nations wisdom is acknowledged and valued at ICC Sydney and we support to forging a new way together.
With an opportunity and an obligation to support a more inclusive future, we would like to share our experiences in creating culturally inclusive events that provide opportunities for First Nations businesses. If you’d like to learn more about the ‘From the Heart’ campaign to support an Indigenous Voice to parliament.
As an iconic destination, which stands and operates on the land of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, ICC Sydney has a unique opportunity to foster and promote reconciliation. To acknowledge the traditional owners of the land and promote true reconciliation, ICC Sydney encourages its clients to activate authentic, cultural experiences at their next event.
Here are several ways event organisers can recognise and celebrate the culture and customs of the First Nations people at ICC Sydney.
1. Open with an Acknowledgement or Welcome to Country
An Acknowledgement of Country can be provided by any person wishing to demonstrate their respect for traditional custodians of the land. Welcoming and acknowledgement protocols show respect and promote the ongoing reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people by creating a more inclusive environment for your event.
A Welcome to Country is an official welcome to an Aboriginal Nation by an Aboriginal Elder. Welcome to Country services are provided by ICC Sydney’s partner, the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council (MLALC) and can take several forms including singing, dancing, smoking ceremonies, or a speech. This longstanding cultural protocol grants permission for your attendees to enter Gadigal Country, welcoming them and offering them safe passage in return for respecting the rules of the Custodians while on their Country.
2. Connect with Country through a Smoking Ceremony
Aboriginal Smoking Ceremonies are over 60,000 years old. Performed by an Aboriginal Elder or an Aboriginal person with specialised spiritual and cultural knowledge, the ancient custom involves burning various native plants to produce smoke which has cleansing properties. Smoking Ceremonies are seen as a gesture of goodwill, bringing people together and can also be a way of connecting with Country by speaking to and acknowledging ancestors of the land.
3. Inspire attendees with a live cultural performance
Kick off your event with a powerful performance by KARI Alumni Singers to acknowledge, celebrate and showcase First Nations people. The Alumni are an extremely talented Aboriginal vocal performance group, capturing audiences with their unique sound and performance style. Immerse and inspire your attendees with a combination of traditional and modern pieces with a cultural flare, whether it be a conference or gala dinner.