12 Jan 2020 | 03:21 PM UTC
Australia: Indigenous rights protest in Sydney January 26
Civil society groups announce indigenous rights protest in Sydney on January 26; heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions expected
Event
Several civil society groups have called for a protest in Sydney (New South Wales state) on Sunday, January 26, to coincide with Australia Day or what indigenous rights activists refer to as Invasion Day. Participants plan to gather at 11:00 (local time) at Hyde Park South. Tens of thousands of people took part in a similar demonstration in 2019.
A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are expected near the protest site.
Context
Australians annually celebrate January 26 as a national holiday commemorating the 1788 arrival of the First Fleet of British ships. Indigenous rights groups protest the celebration, viewing it as a commemoration of the invasion of their land.
Advice
Individuals in Sydney are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and anticipate a heightened security presence and localized disruptions to business and transportation, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
