Canberrans will have plenty of opportunities to experience and learn more about Aboriginal culture as Australia comes together to celebrate NAIDOC week.
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NAIDOC week is held annually in July to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
This year's theme is 'Because of her, we can', recognising the role Aboriginal women have played and continue to play in the community and in closing the gap.
ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs minister Rachel Stephen-Smith said the theme was a recognition of the strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women.
"The theme acknowledges the history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women really being the backbone of their communities," Ms Stephen-Smith said.
"The wisdom of the elders and their support of the next generation is absolutely crucial and recognised through that theme."
Ms Stephen-Smith added NAIDOC Week gave the community the opportunity to "continue the conversation that we also have during Reconciliation Week about the true history of our nation and the impact of past policies, but also acknowledge the resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and the strength of their culture".
ACT Attorney-General Gordon Ramsay said the week provided a chance to celebrate women whose stories were too often not told.
"It's acknowledging the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women who are so strong and so instrumental not only in this community but in communities across Australia," Mr Ramsay said.
Community events are being held across Canberra throughout the week of July 8 to 15.
The National Museum of Australia is marking the occasion with guided talks with an Indigenous focus, the Discovery Centre will be given an Indigenous-themed makeover and tours of the First Australians gallery will be free.
The National Gallery will host a weaving class perfect for children on Sunday, there will be a healing circles meditation course on Tuesday and several other special events.
A family day will be held at the University of Canberra on Sunday featuring free entertainment and live performances, free rides, face painting and food stalls. Queanbeyan Golf Club will be hosting a golf day on Friday.
The Belconnen Community Gallery and Canberra Contemporary Arts Space at Gorman House are both hosting Indigenous art exhibitions during the week.
Find out more at www.naidoc.org.au/get-involved/naidoc-week-events
