invasion day 2025: ways to stand in solidarity with first nations communities
I would like to acknowledge the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation as the traditional custodians of the land where I live and work as an uninvited settler. I pay my respects to Elders past, present, and emerging. Sovereignty was never ceded. Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.
I would also like to acknowledge and credit the teachers and guides who have shaped my understanding of anti-oppressive practice and whose teachings continue to inform my work: Leah Avene of CoCulture, Dr. Jennifer Mullan of Decolonizing Therapy, Raphael Ngarigo Boodjarn, and Jedison Wells.
understanding invasion day
January 26th, also known as Invasion Day, holds profound significance for many First Nations peoples in so-called Australia. It is a day of mourning, marking the beginning of colonisation, the genocide of First Nations people and the ecocide of Country.
As a white-owned business, I aim to amplify First Nations voices and centre their experiences. This blog offers practical tools and actionable steps for people to stand in solidarity with and support First Nations leadership and advocacy.
Honouring Cultural and Resistance Histories
January 26th is also a day to honour the remarkable histories of First Nations cultural survival and resistance. These stories of resilience and advocacy for sovereignty remind us of the ongoing fight for justice. I invite you to explore Professor Gary Foley’s Heroes of the Aboriginal Resistance website, a resource that documents pivotal moments and leaders in the struggle for First Nations rights.
Ways to Support First Nations People
Here are steps you can take on Invasion Day and beyond:
Educate Yourself: Read books by First Nations authors like Chelsea Watego and Stan Grant. Follow First Nations creators on social media and explore platforms like IndigenousX for First Nations perspectives.
Acknowledge Country: Always begin gatherings by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the land. Learn whose Country you are on and incorporate this practice into your daily life.
Support First Nations Businesses: I’ve rounded up some witchy businesses you might like to consider supporting:
Haus of Dizzy: Bold jewellery with empowering messages.
Gammin Threads: Clothing and accessories celebrating Blak pride.
Bobbi Lockyer: Stunning visual art and photography.
Raph the Witch: Tarot readings and spells.
Donate: Contribute to First Nations-led organizations like the Healing Foundation, Sisters Inside, or Seed Indigenous Youth Climate Network. Follow @dreamtime_aroha on Instagram for mutual aid initiatives.
Show Up: Attend Invasion Day rallies in your area. Listen, learn, and support the voices leading the movement.
Mental Health Resources for First Nations People
Colonization has had profound and lasting impacts on mental health, and culturally safe spaces are essential for healing. Here are some resources and organizations providing vital support:
The Healing Foundation: Focuses on addressing intergenerational trauma and supporting Stolen Generations survivors and their families.
WellMob: An online library offering culturally relevant mental health and wellbeing resources for Indigenous peoples.
Indigenous Allied Health Australia (IAHA): Advocates for culturally safe health practices and provides resources for First Nations communities.
Yarning SafeNStrong: A confidential helpline for First Nations people struggling with mental health or wellbeing challenges.
Deadly Thinking: A social and emotional wellbeing program tailored specifically for Indigenous communities, offering workshops and educational resources.
By supporting these organizations and sharing their resources, we can contribute to providing safe, accessible, and culturally informed mental health support for First Nations people.
Moving Forward Together
Supporting First Nations communities isn’t a one-day event. It’s an ongoing practice of learning, unlearning, and taking action. Invasion Day is an invitation to deepen your commitment. This could look like attending local rallies, advocating for policy changes that uphold Indigenous rights, or supporting First Nations-led initiatives and businesses. Solidarity means listening, amplifying voices, and taking action that aligns with the needs and priorities of First Nations communities. This work requires ongoing effort and reflection. Whether you’re amplifying Indigenous voices, supporting a First Nations business, or unlearning colonial narratives, your actions matter. Start by taking one step today to contribute to meaningful change.
