North Melbourne’s Board of Directors, CEO and senior leaders released their position regarding January 26 following extensive consultation with First Nations players and club staff. It can be found below, along with player statements and links to educational documents.
"We acknowledge that this date, January 26, represents for many the arrival of the First Fleet on the lands of the Gadigal Peoples of the Eora Nation and the resilience of Australia’s First Peoples since. We recognise the pain and sadness many First Nations Peoples and the broader community may be experiencing at this time. We encourage listening, understanding and reflection of our Nation’s shared past. We will be stronger together when we can celebrate the history of the country we call home, on a date that unites us."
First Nations voices are crucial to this conversation, and Jy Simpkin (a proud Yorta Yorta man and our AFL co-captain) and Mia King (a proud Jawoyn woman and AFLW player), have provided their personal reflections on what the day represents to them.
“January 26 isn’t a day for celebration, but an opportunity for everyone to continue to ask questions and learn about Australia’s shared history, the strength and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people and our culture." – Jy Simpkin
“Now more than ever we must stand in solidarity with the original custodians of this land. This begins with recognition and truth-telling, and today is an opportunity to do that. We will have something to celebrate, but only when we can do it in harmony." – Mia King
Educational resources:
