For some, January 26th is a day of celebration. For others, it’s nothing more than a public holiday. For many, today is a day of mourning and protest. With the large number of articles, social media posts, and news headlines published around this time of year, it can be overwhelming and confusing to know what you can do to help your First Nations community members, classmates or friends.
We have compiled a list of resources to help educate our readers, and suggest ways you can support First Nations communities.
Australia Day hasn’t always been on January 26, but it has always been an issue (theconversation.com) – If you’re not really sure why January 26th is a date that divides the nation, read more here for a comprehensive history of Australia Day.
Always Was, Always Will Be Aboriginal Land: A playlist to celebrate First Nations music (farragomagazine.com) – Whether you’re having a gathering today, catching up on housework, or just hanging out quietly at home, everyone loves a good playlist. This playlist celebrates the talent and creativity of First Nations artists.
EDITORIAL: Australia does not exist. – Honi Soit – If you’re interested in hearing what other student publications have to say about January 26, make sure you check out this article by the University of Sydney publication, Honi Soit.
The 1938 Day of Mourning | AIATSIS– If you are interested in Australian history, check out the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies website. AIATSIS is the only national institution in Australia that focused exclusively on the history, culture and heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. They publish news, you can browse the archives, and there is a great online shop.
Indigenous Voice to Parliament: Reconciliation will die with a failed referendum (brisbanetimes.com.au) – To find out more about the Voice to Parliament referendum, read this article by Indigenous Leader Noel Pearson. First Nations advocates have been calling for the referendum for years, with research showing substantial public support for a Voice.
Five contemporary First Nations artists breaking down barriers in music – Beat Magazine – More music! Check out these young creators who are taking the Australian music scene by storm.
Australia Day: Why young Aussies are shunning their national holiday – BBC News – Many young Australians no longer feel comfortable celebrating a day which brings so much hurt and pain to their fellow Aussies. Read more about the growing support for changing the date, and how people are taking it back themselves.
11 Indigenous Australian artists you should know about – Vogue Australia – Aboriginal people have been making art for thousands of years, and have developed a unique art style which is distinctly Australian. There are so many fantastic Indigenous artists and here are just some that should be on your radar.
Indigi-Briz – 22 January 2023 (4zzz.org.au) – Listen to Indigi-Briz on 4ZZZ! Indigi-Briz features music from up and coming Indigenous talent, traditional vibes, interviews and yarns, deadly discussions, community announcements and alternative news, what’s on, what’s wombah.
Pay The Rent | Saying Sorry Isn’t Enough – Pay the Rent is a program is organised by First Nations and non-First Nations people working together, as the Pay The Rent Grassroots Collective. Rent payments are payments made for the use and benefit of occupying Aboriginal land, and a mechanism of restitution. Pay The Rent’s Constitution requires it to use rent solely for the purpose of promoting the self-determination, economic independence and welfare of Aboriginal people.