On 26 January 1938, marking the 150th anniversary of British colonisation, a group of Aboriginal men and women gathered at Australia Hall in Sydney. This event, organised by the Australian Aborigines’ League and the Aborigines Progressive Association, protested the mistreatment and systemic injustices faced by First Nations people in Australia since 1788. The day involved a congress aimed at uniting First Nations people in the fight for civil rights and equality.
Since that pivotal gathering, 26 January has been observed by many First Nations peoples and allies as a day of protest and reflection. The date is referred to by various names, including Invasion Day and Survival Day.