The focus of Geelong One Fire Reconciliation group (One Fire) is on backing the self-determination of First Nations people, and taking responsibility for our own learning in order to do so.
One Fire was established in the 1990s, and members at that time included Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people active in the Native Title movement. The term' One Fire' evolved from the discussions of early members, to symbolise the Group's intention to be around one fire together.
At this time (2020) the membership of One Fire is non-Indigenous people. We learn and take guidance for our activities from Wadawurrung Traditional Owners and members of the broader Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities of Geelong / Djillong. Each year we partner with these communities to provide Reconciliation in the Park.
One Fire is a member of Reconciliation Victoria. Like Reconciliation Victoria, we believe that acknowledging our past, ending racism and achieving self-determination for First Nations people, are key dimensions of reconciliation. As individuals, One Fire members bring others into reconciliation conversations, connections, learning and action for change. Our aim is to maintain relationships that are strong, and conversations that are current and real. We are hopeful about what we can achieve together on this journey.