North Melbourne’s Board of Directors, CEO and senior leaders have reiterated their position regarding January 26 following extensive consultation with First Nations players and club staff.
This statement, along with player perspectives and links to educational resources, reflects our commitment to listening, learning, and working together with our First Nations Community.
"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.
"The club has developed a First Nations Strategy, which will now guide the implementation of First Nations-related activities and initiatives within the club, ensuring that First Nations voices and perspectives are embedded in our decision-making.
"We continue to reiterate our message and encourage listening, understanding and reflection of our nation's shared past.
"We will be stronger together when we can celebrate all that is great about the country we call home, on a date that unites us." - North Melbourne’s Board of Directors, CEO and senior leaders
First Nations voices are crucial to this conversation. To amplify these perspectives, former club captain and AFL player Jy Simpkin (a proud Yorta Yorta man), AFL player Robbie Hansen jnr (a proud Wongi and Noongar man), and AFLW player Mia King (a proud Jawoyn woman) have shared their personal reflections on what January 26 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
"It’s difficult for me to celebrate on January 26, knowing our nation’s history and its impact on mob. I’d love for people to reflect on the experiences of First Nations people and our ancestors, so we can move forward together." - Robbie Hansen jnr
"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:
