The Sir Doug Nicholls round is an annual highlight whereby the community comes together to appreciate not only the majestic talents of Aboriginal footballers but their culture, history and pride.

And Launceston gets a chance to be part of it today when Hawthorn takes on Port Adelaide at UTAS Stadium.

Three generations of a Northern Tasmanian Aboriginal family will perform a Welcome to Country - inspiring a whole community to be proud of who you are.

A perfect lead into National Reconciliation Week come Monday.

A week held every year to coincide with two moments in history - the 1967 referendum and the 1992 High Court Mabo decision.

This year's theme is: grounded in truth, walk together with courage.

There will be many events throughout the week to foster positive race relations, education on times gone by and encourage respect. All with the aim of achieving a unified future. A world where everyone is equal, respected and understood.

Because statistics show Aboriginal people are disadvantaged.

But the AFL careers of people such as Lances Franklin, Cyril and Maurice Rioli, Polly Farmer, Nicky Winmar, Michael Long, Andrew McLeod, Adam Goodes, Arthur Beetson, Gavin Wanganeen, Michael O'Loughlin, Jimmy Krakouer, and Shaun and Peter Burgoyne, to name a few, have helped break down many barriers.

And the AFL through its support programs and this weekend's events - such as Dreamtime at the 'G draw attention to an important national issue.

As we move towards equality the highlight of the week should be very much on those values of respect and understanding.

It's the subvert racism that many people in our community face, not just those who identify as Indigenous.

While we have a week to reflect and support the Indigenous community, really it should be 365 days a year.