Flag Waving Patriotism
What’s with the flag waving this year? In previous years, I don’t recall people flying Australian flags from their cars. The last two days, I have seen several on the roads.
This kind of patriotism makes me nervous. It is dangerous, and opens the door to bigotry and intolerance.
I like the flag waving for Australia day. I believe that people should be proud of where they live. I understand your concerns about bigotry and intolerance but they are elements in all societies. Trying to educate bigots is the hard part; it gets me into arguments. My final words are generally “How can you hate someone you don’t even know or a culture you don’t even remotely understand? How does that work for you?”
PS. I’d love to keep in touch (I might normally but I’m banned at MTAU).
Comment by Steve Treloar ⎯ 2009-03-29 @ 1225
It’s good to hear from you. I’ve sent you a couple of e-mails, but there’s been no response. Hit me up again, as I’d like to keep in touch too.
Comment by Silver ⎯ 2009-04-20 @ 0717