{
  "id": 18610755,
  "title": "Inclusion and education on agenda for marking WA's bicentenary in 2029",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/07/inclusion-and-education-on-agenda-for-marking-was-bicentenary-in-2029",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-07T01:32:43.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News AU",
    "slug": "abc-news-au",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-11-07/planning-for-wa-bicentenary-underway/107357844"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Western Australia's bicentenary in 2029 should focus on commemoration over celebration, according to new committee chair Colleen Hayward. Educator and Noongar leader Hayward emphasized the importance of unity and inclusiveness in acknowledging the 200 years of the Swan River Colony's founding. While some may want to celebrate, Hayward believes that a commemoration approach is crucial for all. The committee is currently conducting community consultations, with a report expected to guide the state's bicentennial activities. Hayward expressed interest in initiatives such as digitizing archives and providing education about Aboriginal names in suburb locations, aiming to make everyone feel part of the state's heritage.",
  "summary": "Western Australia's bicentenary should be a \"commemoration rather than a celebration\", according to the new chair of the committee that will guide the state's approach to 2029.",
  "key_points": [
    "Bicentenary in 2029 to focus on commemoration, not celebration",
    "Committee chair Colleen Hayward emphasizes unity and inclusiveness",
    "Initiatives include digitizing archives and educating about Aboriginal names"
  ],
  "editors_take": "Prioritizing commemoration over celebration shifts the bicentenary focus toward historical accuracy and inclusivity, ensuring the state's heritage reflects a shared identity through education and the recognition of Aboriginal history.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}