Palawa woman Maggie Blanden is a staunch advocate for her people.
From working in law reform and policy development to advocating for Indigenous self-determination, sovereignty and land rights, this young Blak woman is a force to be reckoned with.
It comes as no surprise that she is being recognised for the immense impact she has had on her community, and nominated for Young Tasmanian of the Year.
But, for Ms Blanden, the nomination does not align with her values.
“I am a proud sovereign palawa woman. I cannot, in good faith, accept a nomination for this award,” she told NITV.
Ms Blanden rejected the nomination to protest against the country’s national day being held on January 26.
“I am personally not proud to celebrate Australia.”
“On January 26, I will not celebrate this nation or a nomination for an award.
This is a day of mourning, not a day of celebration. I will mourn the loss of our Old People.
“This day marks the beginning of invasion, dispossession and intergenerational trauma of our people. This violent legacy continues today,” Ms Blanden said.
The person who wins Young Tasmanian of the Year is immediately a finalist for Young Australian of the Year, which is announced on January 26.
“January 26 is a Day of Mourning – a time to come together and remember the loss of our Old People. We are joined by thousands of allies and friends, united in our shared commitment to honour our ancestors and continue the fight for justice for palawa,” she said.
Ms Blanden says she has been able to celebrate her achievements in ways where she feels she doesn’t have to compromise who she is.
“I recently was awarded a Special Achievement Award at lutruwita NAIDOC Ball.”
“This recognition is something worth celebrating – why? Because it comes from the very people and role models who have shaped and inspired me.
“This award also gives me the strength and drive to continue working alongside my community,” she said.
Ms Blanden hopes other young Blakfullas can feel strong enough to make the call when something doesn’t feel right.
“I hope that this decision inspires other young First Nations people, especially my nitas and nawtas (brothers and sisters), to feel empowered to say no when something doesn’t align with their values.”
“I’m proud to stand alongside many other proud sovereign palawa, including but not limited to Michael Mansell, Jim Everett, Jamie Graham-Blair, Caleb Nichols- Mansell, Nunami Sculthorpe-Green, Bianca Templar and Madeline Wells,” she said.
