not the date to celebrate
The January 26th public holiday is coming up and I want to acknowledge that this is not a day of celebration for many Australians, but in fact quite the opposite.
As my brand stands for inclusivity and equality, I will be pausing all content allowing First Nations peoples to be heard amplifying their message. I don’t feel right about occupying any space during this time. It’s time to shut up and listen. If Kmart can pull their Australia Day crap off the shelf and the Vic Government can stop their parade and take a step back - it feels like change is closer. I truly hope so.
I wanted to share some of my favourite First Nations peoples and business, I encourage you to follow all of these businesses and amplify the good that are doing:
Co-founded by Cormach Evens and Coco Eke. Ngarrimili works to support and nurture First Nations businesses. providing value support, resources and skills. I have a huge amount of respect for what Cormach and Coco have achieved and as a business, I donate regularly to Ngarrimli to support their work.
Native Botanical Brewery and Meat Brother Bush Foods
Led by cousin Corey Grech, these two Sydney-based businesses will delight your taste buds. Check out the kick-ass things Corey is dishing up.
I met Kaz at a bread-making class a few years back. She has the most amazing eye for style and design. Check out her amazing stone acknowledgement of country plagues. Please get one for your home, I have one hanging in my office.
A Melbourne-based clothing brand campaigning for change. This time last year they successfully campaign to free the flag and they continue to push to remove January 26th from the public holiday calendar.
I adore Racheal’s work, it’s just simply stunning. She is super funny too.
Make some of the raddest jewellery in town. You can choose from their ally-friendly designs and wear your values in support.
An amazing creative space for First Nations women & LGBTQI+ to access mentoring and development opportunities within the creative industries.
If you haven’t heard her music get on it! I do many a work session with Thelma singing in my ears.
If you need a little pump-up, tune your streaming service to some of Baker Boys’ music!
I’ve been a Dan fan for years, but his 2017 album Killer was epic. Please go and listen to his music.
In the meantime, I’ll encourage my kiddos to be champions for healing and change. I truly hope that one day we can heal and celebrate as a nation.
