From an early age we have been trained to use the word as an apology when we make a mistake, to attempt to right our wrongs.

However, some merely use it by reflex, and don’t think about the consequences of their actions. So while it is a word you might use every day, once a year it is a word that contains additional importance to the original inhabitants of this land. 

National Sorry Day was held on May 26, as it has every year since 1998 in order to commemorate the history of the forced removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families since the start of the country’s occupation by Europeans – the children who are now known as the Stolen Generations. 

Events to recognise the day were held across the nation, including a community-initiated one in Tilba Tilba where those attending reflected on the stories that shaped the relationships between all Australians. At Tilba Tilba’s event, non-Indigenous Australians expressed their sadness for the treatment of Indigenous Australians, as well as gratitude for their forgiveness.

However, in today’s society there is still a lack of understanding in some non-Indigenous Australians of the impact and consequences of the Stolen Generations, evident by 2GB breakfast host Alan Jones’ comments earlier this year when he said “we need stolen generations”.

While National Sorry Day has been a good step forwards in the quest for equality, many of these Australians continue to fight for recognition of their rights. 

Locally, for instance, a Bermagui man has been campaigning for the British Museum to return a shield and a number of spears taken after the Gweagal people’s encounter with Captain Cook and his men in Botany Bay in 1770. 

Nationally, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children make up 5.5 per cent of all children in Australia but constitute almost 35 per cent of children in out-of-home care. 

Saying “sorry” for a history of violent occupation, massacres, the forced removal of children and continued disrespect is not something that should be said lightly. It should be said after considering the impact these acts have had on the First Australians. 

Instead of using it as a reflex, make the word mean something.