“There’s no doubt this has been a tough year, with bushfires and coronavirus taking their toll on Aboriginal communities.” Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gabrielle Williams.
NAIDOC Week was scheduled to be held from 5 to 12 July - this week - but for the first time in its 64-year history, has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The Victorian Government is putting together a star-studded virtual concert to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture despite the postponement of NAIDOC Week.
Gabrielle Williams, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, announced a variety performance event will be live streamed this Saturday – what would have been the penultimate day of the landmark week-long celebration.
“NAIDOC Week may be postponed, but we’re still taking the opportunity to maintain community connections and celebrate Aboriginal culture.”
The NAIDOC 2020 Concert: Always Was, Always Will Be will be held at Hamer Hall and while closed to the public, Victorians can live stream all the action from 6.30pm AEST on the Victoria Together website and other social platforms (linked below). The concert will be hosted by comedians Shiralee Hood and Dion Williams and feature artists including Uncle Archie Roach, Troy Cassar-Daley, Allara, Lady Lash and Mau Power.
Image: Scott Darlow
“The event will be more than just good fun – it’s a chance to highlight the talented performers right across the country and provide a lifeline to the struggling arts industry.” - Gabrielle Williams.
The Government is investing $150,000 to hold the virtual concert, with support from the Victorian Aboriginal community and the arts sector, including Arts Centre Melbourne.
Streaming on Saturday 11 July, 6.30pm Running time: Approximately 2 hours Watch on Facebook or YouTube
NAIDOC Week is now expected to be held in November.
Image: Comedian Shiralee Hood
Images: via the The Art Centre website.
