The dispossession of Australia’s First Nations peoples began on this date in 1788, representing a day of mourning as opposed to one of celebration.
Rural Lifestyle Options Australia recognises the impact that this date has had and continues to have on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Each year Australians discover more about the impact of invasion on First Nations peoples, on their culture, right to self-determination, and sovereignty. January 26th is an important moment for all of us to support First Nations-led campaigns for self-determination and justice.
Whilst we believe Australia is a country that should have a day to be celebrated, we believe it should be held on a date which brings all Australians together. Rather than unifying Australians, the celebration of January 26th each year alienates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We acknowledge that calls to change the date is just the beginning with reparations, justice and systemic change duly owed to the First Nations Peoples of the land, waters and communities we depend on.
Whether today marks Australia Day, Invasion Day or Survival Day to you, above all else today marks an opportunity to remember, to reflect, to acknowledge, to listen, to support and to recognise what this day represents to some and not to others.
Heal country, heal our nation. 🖤💛❤️
To learn more about our commitment to reconciliation, please visit www.rloa.org.au/rap
