On 26 January, we cannot ignore the loss, sadness and dispossession of First Nations people
For many First Nations people, 26 January is a date marked by loss and sadness – the beginning of a painful period in which their culture was eroded and their communities dispossessed.
26 January 2021
Against this backdrop, on 26 January we acknowledge the trauma and pain First Nations people have endured since 1788. It is a time to reflect and reach a shared understanding of how past injustices have impacted First Nations people over generations.
Despite this harm, the resilience and strength of First Nations communities has seen them drive progress on many important human rights issues in this country, from criminal justice reform to land rights. First Nations people have cared for this land for over 65,000 years, and they have played – and continue to play – a pivotal role in Australia’s culture, history and future.
In the last year, we have seen the Victorian Government’s commitment to a truth-telling process and other important work from the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria. At the Commission, we reaffirm our commitment to advancing the rights of Aboriginal Victorians, including the protection of Aboriginal cultural rights under the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities. We continue to support conversations around Treaty, to elevate Aboriginal voices and to advocate for continued progress towards self-determination.
Always was, always will be.