What does 'Mabo Day' commemorate?

'Mabo Day' commemorates the landmark Mabo case for Indigenous land rights, which was a significant legal decision made by the High Court of Australia in 1992. This case recognized the traditional rights of Indigenous Australians to their land, challenging the concept of terra nullius, which falsely portrayed Australia as land belonging to no one prior to European settlement.

Eddie Mabo, a Torres Strait Islander, was at the forefront of this legal battle, and his relentless pursuit of recognition for Indigenous land rights changed the landscape of Australian law. The outcome of the Mabo case not only reaffirmed the connection of Indigenous people to their land but also paved the way for the Native Title Act 1993, which allows Indigenous Australians to claim rights and interests in land based on traditional laws and customs.

Celebrating 'Mabo Day' on June 3 each year serves to acknowledge and honor Eddie Mabo's contributions to land rights and to raise awareness of Indigenous issues in Australia. This day is marked by various events that promote understanding and recognition of the ongoing struggles for justice by Indigenous Australians.