Reflecting on January 26

January 26 is the date the First Fleet arrived in 1788.

That one day, 238 years ago, splits more than 45,000 years of First Peoples living on, and caring for, these lands and waterways, prior to colonisation, and the present.

It is a significant date – and it is a sensitive one.

It is a date to remember; one to learn from and reckon with.

The Brotherhood of St. Laurence (BSL) recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of these lands and waterways.

We also recognise Traditional Owners are still caring for these lands and waterways – and BSL is proud to support Victoria’s Treaty and the Victorian Government’s work towards reconciliation, including commitment to ongoing truth telling.

There can be no reasonable denial that colonisation had vast, deep negative consequences for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

These facts have always been known, and through the Yoorrook Justice Commission, they are now recorded.

These are hard truths, but they must be faced in order to move forward.

We encourage you to do so this public holiday; to reflect, sit with a bit of discomfort, consider First Nations perspectives, and walk with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities towards a future grounded in respect, partnership, and shared purpose.

BSL stands in solidarity with First Peoples on January 26, and every day.

To learn about Treaty, visit: https://firstpeoplesvic.org/treaty/

To learn about colonialism’s impact on First Nations people in Victoria, visit: https://www.yoorrook.org.au/