Which political ideology do you most identify with?
What do national symbols like the flag or anthem mean to you, and how do they shape your identity?
The flag represents Australia's colonial history and the atrocities both England and Australia committed against Indigenous people here and elsewhere. Both the flag and the anthem does not shape my identity. And they mean little to me.
While some atrocities were committed to the Indigenous peoples of Australia, this flag is a sign of redemption. Many convicts who were sent to Australia as criminals from England, as well as others who arrived later, came to Australia to experience a better live. Consequently, while mistakes have been made in the founding of Australia post-colonisation, strides for redemption and reconciliation can, should and are being made. Consequently, while areas of our nations history are flawed, we should be proud for the true egalitarianism we experience, today
I agree with what the response believes the Australian flag and anthem to be a representation/ product of. However, simply because I challenge the importance of these symbols due to their political/ historical symbolism does not mean they haven't shaped my identity. They mean alot to me as they are symbols of where I am from, thus who I am. I am an Australian - I live in a country marred by its colonial past, but still striving for reconciliation, which I am reminded of every time I witness these national symbols and feel the urge to challenge their importance.
Identity in a country such as Australia means very little, especially if we see it characterised as the 'white Australian bushman'. Australia is made up of immigrants and Indigenous people, so to reduce its identity to a white man is far from what we should be proud of. I believe in Australian unity, not identity unless you are Indigenous as their narrative gets pushed to the side too often.
