This Wednesday, January 26, 2022, recognised by many as Invasion Day or Survival Day, marks 234 years since British invasion on this continent and the start of violent colonisation that continues to this day. For many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples this is a day of mourning and commemoration of hundreds of years of survival and resistance.
January 26 is a critical moment to show solidarity with First Nations justice and climate activists. There are many ways we can each play our part and support and amplify First Nations voices and demands, and here are just a few great First Nations-led campaigns and organisations we'd like to acknowledge:
-
The First Nations Justice team at Getup! lead brilliant campaigns on ending NT fracking, protecting Aboriginal heritage and more.
-
Seed Mob have just become the first independent Indigenous Youth Climate Network on this continent
-
The Indigenous Peoples Organisation developed a very important resource last year on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander priorities for climate and environment.
This Wednesday also marks the 50 year anniversary of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy in Ngambri Ngunnawal/Canberra – the longest continuous protest in the country, and the world.
“I think the important thing is not to focus just on the embassy, but 50 years of resistance. And furthermore, 233 years of resistance.” Dr Gary Foley
As we face the climate crisis, we need now more than ever to heal the wrongs from the past. The climate crisis is created from the same system that encouraged the dispossession and genocide.
First Nations people have been dealt a double blow by the fossil fuel industry: forced to suffer the direct impact of mining on country, and then forced to cope with the devastating impacts of climate change.
Right now, fracking companies like Origin Energy are pushing forward with their plans to frack the Beetaloo Basin – and we know the consequences will be devastating for First Nations people and our climate.
ALEC recognises the connection of First Nations people to the land, islands and sea, and extend our deepest respect to our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander colleagues who are incredible leaders in the fight for First Nations justice and action on climate change, and work to protect Country and climate, communities and creatures of all kinds.
The climate and environment movement is behind you this day and always. Non-Indigenous members of our movement commit to holding ourselves accountable to standing in solidarity and supporting your leadership.
Cover image: NITV