Invasion Day/Survival Day Statement of Solidarity

NAVA acknowledges the Gadigal, Wangal, Dharug, Dharawal, Kabi Kabi, Jinibara, Ngunnawal, Ngambri and Dja Dja Wurrung peoples as the Traditional Custodians and knowledge-holders of the unceded lands on which we live, learn and work. 

The NAVA community is based across hundreds of sovereign nations and unceded lands throughout the continent that have become colonially known as Australia. NAVA pays our deepest respects to all Custodians of Country to whom these lands belong.

We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first artists and storytellers on this continent and pay respect to First Nations communities' Ancestors and Elders. Sovereignty was never ceded.

On 26 January 2024, NAVA stands in solidarity with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, recognising their inherent rights to sovereignty and self-determination. We commemorate the enduring resilience and resistance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples against ongoing colonialism, dispossession and systemic injustice over 235 years. 

The NAVA team will join and support nationwide events, protests and fundraisers for Invasion Day/Survival Day. We call on members of our community to stand with First Nations peoples by actively listening, showing up and paying the rent. 

NAVA will not be available for calls or enquiries during the day but please leave a message at 1800 046 282 or email us at nava@visualarts.net.au and we will respond on Monday. While the NAVA team will be out of the office supporting local events, another way to show solidarity is substituting the 26 January public holiday for another day. This provision is allowable under some awards and agreements. Find out more by visiting Change it Ourselves.