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National Sorry Day

It's National Sorry Day - the perfect time to apologize and make amends for any mistakes or hurtful actions. Let's spread forgiveness and kindness today!

Wednesday

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMay 26

OBSERVED INAustralia

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYIndigenous

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to apologize and make amends on National Sorry Day, which falls on May 26th. This day is all about recognizing the importance of forgiveness and saying sorry for any wrongdoings or hurtful actions towards others. It originated in Australia as a way to acknowledge the mistreatment of indigenous people and promote reconciliation. However, it has now become a global movement to spread kindness and understanding among all individuals. So let's take this opportunity to mend relationships, heal wounds, and spread love and compassion on this special day!

TIMELINE

National Sorry Day Timeline

Beginnings of Mistreatment

Indigenous children in Australia started being forcibly removed from their families, a practice that would continue into the 1970s, in attempts to assimilate them into non-Indigenous society.

Establishment of Royal Commission

The Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody presented its final report. The commission investigated 99 deaths that occurred in custody over a 10-year period, providing over 300 recommendations.

Creating of the 'Bringing Them Home' Report

Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission initiates a national Inquiry into the Separation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children from Their Families, also known as the 'Bringing Them Home' report.

First National Sorry Day

The first National Sorry Day is held one year after the tabling of the 'Bringing Them Home report' in Australia's Parliament - this report highlighted the effects of forcible removal on Indigenous Australians.

Official Apology

Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd officially apologises to the Indigenous Australians for policies of successive parliaments and governments, recognizing the pain caused by forced separations.

Sorry Day Goes Global

The ethos behind National Sorry Day begins to transcend national borders. It is adopted by various groups around the globe as a day to acknowledge wrongdoings and promote kindness and understanding.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Sorry Day

Attend a Sorry Day event

Many communities and organizations hold events on National Sorry Day to recognize and commemorate the wrongs done to Indigenous people in the past. Take part in one of these events to show your support and learn more about this important day.

EDUCATE

Educate yourself

Take some time to read and learn about the history of Indigenous people in your country. Understanding the past is crucial in moving towards reconciliation and healing.

SUPPORT

Support Indigenous businesses

Show your support for Indigenous communities by shopping at businesses owned and operated by Indigenous individuals. This is a great way to show solidarity and contribute to the economic empowerment of these communities.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer with an Indigenous organization

Find a local organization that supports Indigenous causes and offer your time and skills to help out. This can be a meaningful way to contribute to the community and show your support on National Sorry Day.

HAVE

Have conversations about reconciliation

Start important conversations with friends and family about reconciliation and what can be done to support Indigenous communities. This is a great way to raise awareness and promote understanding on National Sorry Day.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Sorry Day is Important

It inspires positive change

Through National Sorry Day, we are reminded of our responsibility to create a better future for all Australians. It encourages conversations about reconciliation, social justice, and human rights, leading to positive action and progress towards a more united nation.

It recognizes the struggles and resilience of Indigenous Australians

National Sorry Day is a day to acknowledge and remember the injustices and atrocities committed against Indigenous Australians. It honors their strength and determination in the face of adversity, and reminds us to continue fighting for reconciliation and justice.

It promotes healing and understanding

National Sorry Day is also a time to reflect on our shared history and understand the impact of colonization on Indigenous communities. By acknowledging past wrongs and seeking to make amends, we can work towards building a more inclusive and compassionate society for all Australians.

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