For Aboriginal people, 26 January is a reminder of the lasting impacts of colonisation, dispossession and invasion. For non-Indigenous Australians, it’s a reminder to learn more about about why 26 January is #NotADateToCelebrate.
Allyship year-round
Listening to and elevating Aboriginal voices is something that needs to take place all year round – not just in the lead up to 26 January. Check out some of these great tips and resources:
- How to be a good ally from NITV
- Allyship beyond the trend from Clothing The Gaps
Take Action
- Call out racism – don't be afraid to have those conversations with family and friends.
- Support and promote the work of Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) like VACCA. Learn more about the work we do.
- Get behind calls for a political voice and constitutional reform for Aboriginal people.
- Include the Traditional Country names when posting letters and parcels, and encourage businesses you buy from to add this option when ordering.
- Know and use Aboriginal placenames, and petition councils and governments to use placenames to make First Nations languages more visible in public spaces.
For more meaningful action you can take to support Aboriginal people, communities and culture, see Reconciliation takes action from Reconciliation Australia.
Educate yourself
Australia’s history is marked by massacre, dispossession, and genocide. Good allyship doesn’t burden the people and communities you stand with. If you’re still not sure why January 26 is #NotADateToCelebrate, it’s time to educate yourself:
- 8 Things you need to know about January 26 from Clothing The Gaps
- Learn our truth from National Indigenous Youth Education Coalition (NIYEC)
- Consume Indigenous created content and news. Check out and follow NITV, Koori Mail, ABC Indigenous, and find a local Indigenous broadcaster via First Nations Media