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January 26 • National Identity

Australia Day

January 26th marks Australia Day, the official national day of Australia. It commemorates the 1788 arrival of the First Fleet at Sydney Cove. While for many it's a day of barbecues and celebration, it is also a deeply controversial date known by many Indigenous Australians as invasion day. This lesson explores the meaning of national days—should a country change its national day to be more inclusive, or is it important to keep historic dates even if they are painful?

Australia Day Lesson Visual

Speaking Discussion

  • What makes a national day successful: celebration or reflection?
  • Should a country change the date of its national holiday if it offends a group of citizens?
  • How does your country handle its difficult history during national celebrations?
  • Is nationalism a positive force for unity, or a negative force for division?
  • What is the best way to celebrate a country's culture without being exclusive?

Activity 1: The Unity Planner

You are a Government Minister. You need to design a "New National Day" that everyone can celebrate. Pitch your idea using the word "Inclusion".

Activity 2: Rapid Fire Debate

Justify your answer in 30 seconds:

  • "A country's history should be taught, not celebrated."
  • "National holidays are the most important days of the year."
  • "Traditional dates should never be changed."