Full Story Lorena Allam on the new low in Australia’s history of colonial terrorism
Feb 9, 2026
Lorena Allam, Indigenous journalist and academic at the Jumbunna Institute, discusses a suspected Invasion Day bombing and its toll on First Nations people. She recaps reactions to the device, critiques media and political framing, and places the attack in the context of Australia’s history of colonial violence and rising racism. She also outlines calls for truth-telling, services, and policy responses.
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Euphemistic Language Minimizes Racial Violence
- Lorena Allam says media euphemisms like “explosive device” downplay racial violence and chill public reaction.
- She argues such language minimizes harm and leaves First Nations people fearing for vulnerable attendees.
Delay In Charges Raised Concern
- Lorena Allam describes relief at terrorism charges but questions the nine-day delay in applying them.
- She ties the delay to pressure from Indigenous leaders and independent media keeping the story alive.
Media Parroting Officials Erases Context
- Lorena Allam says mainstream media largely parroted officials and sidelined the rally's purpose as Invasion Day.
- She warns political framing reframed the gathering as un-Australian rather than a protest about colonial history.