Australia Day Protests Spark Vandalism Across Major Cities

The celebration of Australia Day faces backlash and vandalism, with activists targeting monuments in major cities to protest against colonial oppression.

In a dramatic display of dissent, several monuments in Australia were vandalized as protests erupted against the celebration of Australia Day, a national holiday that many view as a symbol of colonialism and oppression. The actions unfolded over the weekend across key cities including Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra, signaling a deep divide in how the day is perceived by different segments of the population.

For many Australians, Australia Day marks the arrival of the British fleet in Sydney Harbor in 1788, an event that commenced a period of significant hardship for Indigenous peoples. Critics, however, prefer terms like "Invasion Day" or "Survival Day" to emphasize the negative implications of this historical event. Amidst a backdrop of barbeques and festivities enjoyed by some, multiple protesters took to the streets, bringing their concerns into the public eye through acts of vandalism.

In Sydney, a statue of Captain James Cook—who famously claimed parts of Australia for the British—was not only splashed with red paint but also had its hand and nose severed, indicating prior restoration efforts had not deterred further attacks. Meanwhile, in Melbourne, a monument honoring John Batman, known for his settlement in Aboriginal lands, was toppled and destroyed. Protesters also defaced a World War I memorial, spray-painting the phrase “land back” to underline their calls for the return of Indigenous lands.

The incidents highlight the contentious nature of Australia Day, serving as a reminder of the ongoing debate over the legacy of colonialism and the need for increased awareness and reconciliation regarding Australia's Indigenous history.