Aboriginal model tells Aussies why they should NOT post Australia Day ... trends now
An Aboriginal model has urged Aussies to refrain from posting photos of Australia Day celebrations on social media as it is 'insensitive' to the plight of First Nations people.
Millions of Australians flock to beaches, backyard BBQs, and pubs on January 26 with flags draped over their sun-soaked shoulders to mark the national public holiday.
But for some of the country's first inhabitants, the date represents the beginning of the painful and devastating impact of colonisation on their culture since the first British fleet sailed into Sydney Cove in 1788.
Fallon Gregory, a proud Kija/Bardi and Nyul-Nyul woman from Western Australia, says that if people partake in prideful, open Australia Day celebrations, they should not post photos on social media.
'It shows support and lack of sensitivity,' she told news.com.au.
The mother-of-two said non-Indigenous Australians could show their support for Aboriginal people by instead sharing information on social media about why people shouldn't celebrate Australia Day on that date, and by attending invasion day rallies.
'If you're wanting to show true pressure and support then showing up [at marches] to provide numbers, posting and going live from the marches and rallies is key,' she said.
Fallon Gregory, a proud Kija/Bardi and Nyul-Nyul woman from Western Australia (pictured), is sharing information about how Australians can support First Nations people on January 26
She says Australians should not post pictures celebrating Australia Day on social media
Ms Gregory, who has a following of 27,000m is a long-time advocate of changing the date to create a national day that can be inclusive of all Australians.
The movement has gained momentum in recent years, with thousands of protesters hitting the streets across the country on January 26 - renamed 'Invasion Day' by activists - in support of the calendar shift.
Ms Gregory said she is passionate about educating Australians about how to be mindful and respectful about Aboriginal culture - but it is 'tiring'.
Ms Gregory said sharing photos of Australia Day events and parties on social media is culturally insensitive towards First Nations people.
'I've always spoken about my experiences as an Indigenous woman and the good and bad that comes with that,' she told STM.
'I knew I had this voice, and a following, and I needed to use that to bring attention and awareness to these kinds of matters.'
'(But) personally, it's very tiring to continuously, every year, have to come out and educate people on why we shouldn't be celebrating Australia Day.'
The activist and influencer said she has been told be some people to 'be grateful' or 'get over it'.
'It's very invalidating of our position and our
