Invasion Day protests in Australia

  • Invasion Day protest rallies were held across Australia, on 26th January, 2021. 
  • Sydney saw the biggest rallies in protests. 

AUSTRALIA DAY OR INVASION DAY

  • The Australian government celebrates 26th January as ‘Australia Day’.  
  • On 26th January, 1788, the first British fleet had landed at Sydney Harbour, with the aim of establishing a colony and it marks the start of Australia's colonisation.
  • As a reason, the day is controversial. 
  • For years, a "change the date" campaign led by Indigenous Australians has lobbied to move the national day. 
  • Branded by its critics as "Invasion Day", it attracts annual protest rallies drawing attention to the injustices faced by Indigenous people.
  • In the 2020 series, Cricket Australia pitched in their support for the cause. 
  • Cricket Australia also decided to not market high profile international games as ‘Australia Day’ events.

TIMELINE

  • 1605 – Dutch explorer Willem Jansz sets foot on Australia, in his voyage from the Dutch East Indies (Indonesia).
  • 1770 – Captain James Cook lands in New South Wales, and claims land.
  • 1788 – Captain Arthur Phillip, commander of the First Fleet of 11 British ships, arrived at Sydney Harbour, on 26th January.

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