Our Statement on 26 January

26 January is not a day for celebration. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, this date is intertwined with a long history of injustices, dispossession, and cultural suppression and erasure.  

It is a day of deep mourning and reflection on the tragic impacts of colonisation; however, it can also be an opportunity for open dialogue and progress towards Reconciliation. Leadership Victoria  calls for understanding, respect and a commitment to addressing the ongoing challenges faced in Indigenous communities. 

In solidarity with First Nations people, the Leadership Victoria office will remain open on the 26 January public holiday (27th of January), with staff working regular hours on the public holiday and taking leave on another day. By keeping our doors open, we aim to encourage an environment of awareness and meaningful conversations about Australia’s shared history.  

We encourage the LV community of leaders to contribute in your own communities, organisations and sectors, to stand with First Nations people in fostering an inclusive future where history and culture is celebrated and honoured as part of a reconciled Australia.

Consider signing the Not a Date to Celebrate Petition, led by Clothing The Gaps, urging Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to reconsider changing the date. The petition calls on our government to display leadership by acknowledging the profound significance of this date and truly demonstrate the values of unity, respect, and reconciliation.

Read more about our commitment to Reconciliation in our RAP.