The community gathered to mark the 100th anniversary of Kinchela Boys Home. A place weighted with painful memories, yet alive with an enduring spirit of resilience. Under a bright sun, survivors, their families, and supporters from across the country came together to honor this legacy.

At the forefront stood the Elders, their voices steady yet carrying the weight of history as they welcomed everyone to the grounds. We gathered to listen, to ensure their pain is never forgotten, and to stand in solidarity as we work to fulfill their call for a national site dedicated to truth-telling and healing.

Amidst the sorrow, there was also a palpable spirit of healing and hope. Children ran across the grass, their laughter a powerful reminder of the future that those who endured Kinchela fought so hard to protect. This gathering wasn’t just about remembrance—it was about reclamation, a testament that, despite everything, the culture, spirit, and connections that Kinchela tried to sever remain strong.

The event was an overwhelming success, drawing hundreds who came to honor the survivors of the Stolen Generations and support the transformation of Kinchela Boys Home into a place of healing. The Uncles carry the burden of trauma, but their strength continues to inspire hope for the future.

 

 

 

 

 

Story Submitted by Aaron Hughes from Burraga Foundation, Published in November, 2024.