26 January is one of the most painful days of the year for First Peoples. It marks the beginning of 230 years of dispossession, genocide and loss. Some local councils have already changed how they mark the day, and it is important for all councils to listen to the local First Peoples community when deciding what action to take. Having these continuing and respectful conversations locally will help all councils reflect on what they stand for and what date in our history best reflects those values and attributes.
After an historic vote in 2017, Darebin City Council has chosen to no longer host celebrations or ceremonies in the Darebin municipality on January 26th.
The GanbuGulin (One Mob) documentary follows the lead up to this monumental decision and showcases the Councils new, respectful, and culturally safe celebration, the Ngulu Ngajin Ganbu Gulin Festival, developed in collaboration with the Darebin Aboriginal Advisory Committee in 2019.
The Ganbu Gulin film is written and produced by Benjamin Theodore Pederick and Daniel King (director) (Goodmorningbeautiful Films) and captures this important story, demonstrating how local governments can take action to acknowledge past injustices and lead the way in forming a new state-wide identity where Councils work together in respectful partnership with First Peoples to determine culturally safe and appropriate ways to welcome new citizens to country.
Local Government 26 January Network (via Reconciliation Victoria)
26 January Position Statement | Reconciliation Victoria
26 January Protocols and Suggestions | Reconciliation Victoria
Annual Invasion Day March | Warriors of the Aboriginal Resistance
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Victoria, and recognise First Peoples continuing connection to lands, waters and community. We pay our respects to Elders past and present who carry the memories, traditions, cultures and aspirations of First Peoples, and who forge the path ahead for emerging leaders.
We dedicate ourselves to working respectfully with and guided by First Peoples, and to listen and amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in all areas of work
Reconciliation Victoria acknowledges the valuable support we receive from our funding partners.
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