Handshake starts sculpture process
 Reconciliation
Vice-Chancellor Professor James McWha, Kaurna Elder Lewis O'Brien, City, Government and Reconciliation representatives, ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ staff and students literally plastered their hands together in Reconciliation Week as a first step towards a special sculpture to celebrate Reconciliation. The ceremonial handshakes - preserved in plaster - took place between signatories of the ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥'s 2003 Reconciliation Statement, or their representatives, to mark the ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ of Adelaide's ongoing commitment to reconciliation. The handshake imprints will form the basis of a Reconciliation Sculpture commissioned by the ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ from Melbourne-based artists Karen Casey and Darryl Cowie, to be unveiled for Reconciliation Week 2007. Staff, students and members of the community were also invited to "do a handshake" to show their commitment to reconciliation. Professor McWha said: "Over the past three years, the ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ of Adelaide has devoted significant time to ensure that reconciliation initiatives permeate throughout teaching and employment within the ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥. We have also worked towards increasing awareness and understanding within the wider community of the benefits of reconciliation and harmony. "This sculpture will mark this ongoing process and become a permanent, prominent and physical reminder of the ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥'s commitment to reconciliation." The official ceremony and handshake was followed by a barbecue, performance by the ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥'s , and community handshakes. Story by Robyn Mills
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