
In 2020, Mamamia will only refer to January 26 on our homepage by its date, to acknowledge that it is not a day of celebration for all Australians. If you want to be an ally this January 26, we urge you to sign this letter to your MP about the Uluru Statement from the Heart – which calls for constitutional change and structural reform that recognises the sacred, ancient spiritual link Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have to their land.
Dear 13-year-old Bianca,
You know those people right now telling you, “you’re too black to be white and too white to be black”? Their comments are nothing but fuel for you.
Fuel for you to educate the ignorance of those who incite hate over love. Energy to succeed in the future. Those who don’t believe that you will achieve your dreams will inspire you to not prove others wrong, but to prove yourself right.
What if I could tell you where your journey will take you in 10 years? Well… I can’t. Because I am writing this as future you, I already know what has happened… I know I can’t rewrite my history and to be honest – I wouldn’t.
Why?
Because, those people who questioned you, those people who were ignorant to you, who tried to hold you to stereotypes, are now the people who want to learn from you, employ you, are “proud of you” and in awe of you.
WATCH: Why January 26th is one of the most complex dates in Australia. Post continues below.
Since I am writing this in the past tense, I want you to know a few of the things that are in store for you:
You became the second in your immediate family to graduate from high school while working two jobs at the same time.
You were accepted into university for your first preference choice… without an entrance score.
You became the first Indigenous Executive of the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament (after 19 years in existence).
You were invited on behalf of the QLD Premier to be one of 800 people to witness Barack Obama speak on his visit to Australia during his presidency.
Top Comments
You’re amazing Bianca! Congratulations on all that you’ve achieved. Your determination and drive is inspiring. The world needs more strong women leaders.