A date we cannot celebrate as one: A step towards inclusivity

At Growing Potential, we recognise the importance of reconciliation. As part of our commitment, we understand the necessity of addressing sensitive topics, including the complex history associated with the national day celebrated on January 26 and our position as an organisation.

Uncovering the truth: the realities of January 26 in Australia

January 26 1788, marked the arrival of the First Fleet of British ships in New South Wales. This event was the beginning of British colonisation in Australia, which resulted in devastating impacts on First Nations Peoples –proud peoples that had been on these lands for over 65,000 years. The arrival of the British marks the beginning of a long period of atrocities and dispossession perpetrated upon First Nations Peoples, resulting in the destruction of their way of life and the loss of their land.

For many First Nations Peoples, January 26 is a day of mourning the loss of their land, culture, genocide of their people and the ongoing impacts of colonialism. It is also marked as a day of survival, acknowledging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders as the longest surviving continuous culture on earth in spite of history.

As a society, it is important that we understand and acknowledge the complex history and truth related to Jan 26 and its impact on First Nations Peoples. While it is important to recognise and celebrate a national day, it is crucial that we do so in a respectful and inclusive way, recognising the diverse histories, cultures and people that make up the true identity of our nation.

This means acknowledging the difficult and painful aspects of our past and working towards creating a more equitable and inclusive society for all Australians. It means recognising and respecting the experiences and perspectives of First Nations Peoples and working towards reconciliation and healing.

Growing Potential’s position: changing the way we refer to the national day

At Growing Potential, we recognise the importance of acknowledging the complex history of January 26 and its impact on First Nations Peoples.  As such, we will not be referring to this date as Australia Day, but rather January 26. We believe this is a small but important step towards creating a more inclusive and respectful society for all Australians.

Did you know:

Australia Day was originally celebrated on July 30, 1915, and it wasn’t until 1935 that all states and territories recognised the name “Australia Day” for the January 26 observance. It was not until 1994 that January 26 became a national public holiday. Learn more here about the changes dates. In addition, Australia’s First Nations Peoples declared January 26 as a date of mourning as early 1938 and have done so every year since.

Here are a few suggestions you could consider for this January 26:

  1. Educate yourself about the history and culture of First Nations Peoples: Take some time to learn about the rich and diverse cultures of First Nations Peoples in Australia, as well as the difficult and painful aspects of our shared history. This can help increase understanding and empathy, and can be a meaningful way to show respect. A great resource to start with is Reconciliation Australia.
  2. Attend or support cultural events and activities: There are often a range of cultural events and activities held on Jan 26 that celebrate the traditions and cultures of First Nations Peoples. Attending or supporting these events can be a great way to show respect and inclusion.
  3. Reflect on the ongoing impact of colonisation on First Nations Peoples. Consider ways that you can support First Nations Peoples and work towards reconciliation and healing.

By taking these steps and demonstrating practical reconciliation in support of a national conversation to “Change the Date” we get closer to an inclusive National Day that better reflects the diverse histories and cultures that make up our nation.

If you have any questions, comments or suggestions, we encourage you to email [email protected]. Your feedback and perspectives are valuable in helping us continue to learn and grow as a company.

Otto Henfling, CEO and Joseph Archibald, Executive General Manager – Indigenous Service

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