The Stolenwealth Games

During the 2017 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games, amidst the celebratory atmosphere, a notable undercurrent of dissent emerged in the form of the Stolenwealth protests. Spearheaded by Indigenous activists, the demonstrations aimed to shed light on the ongoing injustices faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia. The protests, characterized by peaceful marches and public gatherings, sought to highlight issues such as land rights, cultural appropriation, and the legacy of colonialism. Drawing attention to the historical context of the Commonwealth Games being held on stolen Indigenous land, protesters voiced their grievances against what they perceived as a disregard for Indigenous rights in the pursuit of national pride and sporting glory. Despite efforts by event organizers to maintain order and minimize disruptions, the Stolenwealth protests served as a poignant reminder of the unresolved tensions surrounding Indigenous rights and reconciliation in Australia.