Last Post, March 19
Fraser Anning has embarassed Australia.
What an embarrassment for Australia and Queensland — independent senator Fraser Anning makes the front page of The New York Times for his appalling remarks on the New Zealand terrorist attack. He gets 19 votes and then he is allowed a platform to share venom across the world. Perhaps the adults in parliament will now do something about the idiocies of preferential voting.
A terrific example of two capable women — Janet Albrechtsen and Jennifer Oriel side-by-side (18/3). At a time when we have become accustomed to sledging of the worst order, here we have two journalists who can talk about serious issues without degenerating into name calling, and they back it up with reason and facts. It’s good to know that Twitter hasn’t completely overtaken journalism.
It is uplifting to see the widespread expressions of grief throughout the world following the heinous Christchurch massacre. It is in stark contrast with the reactions in some countries and communities following the 9/11 atrocity that exhibited scenes of jubilation. All the victims in both situations were innocent.
To demonstrate solidarity with the Muslim community in New Zealand, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern dons a hijab that demonstrates the subjugation of Muslim women.
Given Scott Morrison’s comments that Fraser Anning must face the full force of the law, is he suggesting that it is OK to throw eggs or physically attack members of parliament?
I do not agree with Fraser Anning and we should condemn his remarks. But he was not inciting violence, and if we really believe in free speech he should be allowed to say what he said. If censure motions are going to be raised every time someone says something we don’t agree with, where does that leave speech?
Those supporting the egging of Fraser Anning after his appalling comments on the Christchurch murders should pause to remind themselves that both attacks arose from an assumption it is acceptable to attack another person physically because of their beliefs. It is only the degree of violence that differs.
John Quilty wrote an inspiring letter (18/3) that the parents of the young upstarts who protested about climate change last week should read. What a mob of ungrateful brats we have in our midst.
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