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Australia Day, celebrated on January 26th, commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet of British ships in 1788, which marked the beginning of European colonization in Australia. For many Indigenous Australians and their allies, this date is a painful reminder of the dispossession, violence, and discrimination their ancestors faced during and after colonization.

Key reasons why Australia Day is seen as deeply racist and referred to as "Invasion Day" by some are:

1. Dispossession and Cultural Genocide: The arrival of British settlers led to the forced dispossession of land from Indigenous peoples, causing the loss of their traditional territories and sacred sites. The resulting violence and policies of assimilation led to cultural genocide, attempting to erase Indigenous languages, customs, and identities.
2. Loss of Lives and Sovereignty: The colonization of Australia brought devastating consequences for Indigenous communities, including the loss of lives due to conflicts, diseases, and displacement. The imposition of British law and governance further eroded Indigenous sovereignty, rights, and self-determination.
3. Ongoing Inequality: Despite formal apologies and efforts towards reconciliation, Indigenous Australians continue to face systemic inequality in areas such as education, healthcare, employment, and criminal justice. The legacy of colonization persists in socio-economic disparities and the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in incarceration rates.
4. Lack of Acknowledgment: Critics argue that the celebration of Australia Day on January 26th fails to recognize the historical pain and suffering endured by Indigenous Australians. They believe it perpetuates a Eurocentric perspective of history that overlooks the true impact of colonization on the First Nations peoples.
5. Alternative Perspectives: Calling the day "Invasion Day" seeks to challenge the dominant narrative and raise awareness about the need for truth-telling and genuine reconciliation with Indigenous Australians. It represents a call to acknowledge the darker chapters of Australia's past and work towards building a more inclusive and respectful society.