Merri Health advocates to Change the Date for January 26
Published January 25 2024
Merri Health has joined the #ChangeTheDate movement to champion a new National Day of Celebration that is inclusive and respectful of everyone.
We acknowledge January 26 is not an inclusive day for everyone and Merri Health will advocate to change the date to a day that is inclusive for all.
For many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities January 26 is not a celebration, but a day of mourning which has a significant impact on their health, opportunities and equality. It marks the beginning of colonisation, dispossession and significant changes to life, communities and cultures.
As a health organisation, we are committed to closing the health gap that exists between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and non-Indigenous communities.
In particular, we recognise the significant and ongoing impacts of colonisation on health, opportunities and equality for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Respect and equality are vital for health and wellbeing. That is why we support initiatives that promote respect, recognition, equality and inclusion; and listen deeply to the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people advocating for change.
Merri Health staff can now choose to swap a public holiday for another work day.
Our Carer Gateway service is thrilled to Share the Spirit at Sydney Myer Music Bowl tomorrow. It is a great opportunity to yarn and learn about our new First Nations carer services, thoughtfully created by and for mob.
Let’s work together to make January 26 a day that everyone can celebrate, click here to find out how you can support the #ChangeTheDate movement.
More information can be found on Reconciliation Australia’s website.
Image: Ngi-a-gat Balit-Djak Yirramboi (Building a Very Strong Tomorrow) RAP artwork by Simone Thomson.