An Invasion Day protester in Hobart has labelled January 26 celebrations racist and hypocritical, joining nation-wide calls for the Australia Day date to be changed.
Thousands of people rallied on the lawns of Hobart's parliament house on Friday waving Aboriginal flags and banners reading 'Survival Day'.
Aboriginal activist Nala Mansell told the crowd it was a day of mourning for her people.
"It's hard to fathom how a country can proudly hold a day of remembrance with the slogan 'lest we forget' in honour of those who lost their lives fighting in a war overseas," she said.
"Yet when it comes to the thousands of black lives lost right here under our feet, we're all forced to celebrate.
"It's hypocritical and it's bloody racist."
The crowd, believed to be one of the largest in recent years, chanted "always was, always will be, Aboriginal land" as it weaved through the streets.
Among the group was Greens senator Nick McKim, Tasmanian Greens leader Cassy O'Connor and state Labor MP Madeleine Ogilvie.
"We must change the date. It is symbolically very important, it shows respect for our first people," Ms O'Connor urged.
Elder Jim Everett and Tasmania Aboriginal Corporation president Dave Warrener called on governments to sit down and meet with the Aboriginal community.
Ms Mansell praised a crowd of diverse backgrounds for marching together.
"It's not just Aboriginal people but our non-indigenous friends who know the difference between right and wrong," she said.
"No matter how January 26 is dressed it will always signify the victory of the white race over ours."
