@weststigers it’s not about the British colonies and I think that much is obvious because the criticism he presented and as many others have posted, is that it’s not an inclusive anthem to the indigenous where we have nations near us that do have a special version for natives (SA/NZ).
Not saying this is an answer to our dilemma but I’m not sure any one person can provide that!
His concern probably isn’t focused on the betterment of Australia and maybe even IS trying to stir things up to add value but my point is he is perfectly capable of speaking on behalf of those closest to him in community & family, whilst we seem to think we require an explanation?
That doesn’t mean he doesn’t know what he’s fighting for and has free speech. He’s a good bloke by all accounts and I personally am happy for him to do whatever he likes!
I’d say he’s not expecting to get anything out of this but represents a majority of his people!
Great post BTW, very respectfully put
It is about British colonialism. He quoted it himself.
https://www.goldcoastbulletin.com.au/sport/nrl/indigenous-player-boycotting-the-national-anthem-isnt-a-first-as-players-get-hollywood-support/news-story/2849668c6ff0e40ef29cb7c809afdb30
**“To be honest, no,” Walker said when asked if he was comfortable standing for the Australian anthem.
“It just brings back so many memories of what’s happened (in Australia’s past). It’s something that everyone as a group and everyone in Australia need to get together and working something out. It doesn’t represent myself and my family.”**
I'd understand if it was simply a matter of inclusiveness, but the player himself has said it's about the past.
My question stands I'm afraid...
There are still people alive, probably members o his family who lived the injustices that were directed to the indigenous people in this country! Injustices that meet the UN's definition of genocide. These are not issues of the past as many people are still living with the effects of these issues.
For those asking about what is offensive in the anthem, it has been discussed many times in this thread but the anthem completely ignores 40000 years of indigenous history. Those people who say it is not offensive have no right to dictate to others what they do and don't find offensive.
If you read my previous posts, I actually agree with everything you've said.
My question is simply, if he won't sing the anthem because of things the British did in the past, why is he happy to wear a jersey that represents the same thing?
The NSW coat of arms has the British lion and the St George's cross on it for crying out loud, yet the anthem mentions nothing of colonisation. If anything, the jersey is more offensive than the anthem.
I find the premise of his reasoning to be a little contradictory.
Relax...no one here is trying to deny the past.
