“Sorry” is all they needed to say on National Sorry Day, a solemn statement reflecting decades of abuse and mistreatment endured by indigenous Australians.

“We can’t ignore such a big part of Australia’s history,” Year 11 student Kaleb McNally said.

“We need to let future generations know this made Australia what it is today.”

Year 10 student Kiara Wilson agrees it is an important part of our history for all Australians to understand, saying it helps address issues like racism and discrimination still prevalent in society today.

“Sorry Day is apologising for the trauma Indigenous Australians have endured, being stripped of culture and forced to act white,” Kiara said.

“Some people think they shouldn’t have to apologise for what their ancestors did, but today isn’t just about saying sorry.

“It’s about having sympathy and recognising the adversity others have been through.”

National Sorry Day has been recognised since May 26 1997, when the ‘Bringing Them Home’ report regarding the stolen generations was tabled in Parliament.

This is the first year Cootamundra High School has formally recognised the day.

Norta Norta Aboriginal education teachers Margaret Cossey and Debbie Lewis are aiming to have National Sorry Day, NAIDOC Day and Close the Gap Day recognised on the school calendar every year.

“We have been working for a few years to make Aboriginal cultural events and days as significant as possible,” Marg said.

“It’s important for these significant dates to have a higher profile, for everyone in the school to know what today is about.

“The school principal Neil Reaper has been very supportive and enthusiastic to give Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students the best possibilities available.”

Marg also thanked Cootamundra Shire Council, South West Aviation and Mission Australia for their support, and students Monique Hardy and Josiie McGrath for making a cake.