This evening we had a residents’ meeting about the new flag poles area on the South Perth foreshore. The plan includes four flags, representing Australia, Western Australia, Aboriginal heritage and the City of South Perth.
Some people signed a petition and spoke strongly against the inclusion of the Aboriginal flag. Others spoke passionately about celebration of the entire community, recognition of all our parts and of aspects of our history. Speakers recognised the importance of recognising Governor Stirling, the founder of the colony, of significant dates in South Perth and of thousands of years of indigenous connection.
There were those who spoke in favour of having only the Australian flag, others about this being a site for the whole community and about the way that the park is used by millions of people.
My own view is that all four flags represent respect for our shared heritage, our current reality and our future. My own family has been in Australia for six generations. I think we are still new immigrants, learning our way.
In years to come this site will be viewed proudly by all who pass by.
2 comments:
After six generations I think you deserve to think of yourself more than a 'new migrant', and to some extent the remark marginalises new migrants.
Irrespective of how long you have been in Australia, if you are an Australian then you have the right to be here and recognised as an Australian and not as first generation, second or even Aboriginal.
We are one and our Australian flag is the binding icon for us all; to include other denominational flags to my mind divides us. Why not have the Chinese flag, after all they tended the market gardens on the SP foreshore for many years, or even the Italian flag, or the Union Jack. No, we should only have the one flag to bind us and not have any other flags that can, and frankly do, cause division amongst us.
Keep up the good work Pete
I agree. Flags represent respect for our shared heritage, our current reality and our future.
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