Voice a ‘Slap in the Face’ to Australia's multicultural legacy?
This Saturday, the "Voice to Parliament", win or lose, will be like Forrest Gump’s “Life’s Like a Box of Chocolates” raffle.
No one will know what will follow next or what to expect, except there will be the guarantee of the sombreness of disappointment or overwhelming joy depending on who wins.
And while the ‘Voice’s’ supporters argue representation of Indigenous voices is vital, many Australians, especially migrant Australians, view it as a dangerous game of exclusivity that could undermine the profound contributions Australia’s multicultural communities have made, but as a ‘Slap in Face’ to the role they have played in Australia’s advancement as a country.
Like it or not, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, is now perceived by Australia’s migrant communities from Italian to African, Lebanese to Greek, Croation to Pakistani, to not only have undervalued their role, but almost equate the ‘Voice’ as a ‘F**K you to them.
However, it appears, the PM, is prepared to discard the invaluable contributions migrant Australians have made for the sake of political appeasement and buttressing a political powerbase.
Australia's story is rich in the vibrance of multiculturalism - a nation built on the hard work, dreams, and aspirations of the many different multicultural communities.
It’s the men and women of countries far and wide who transformed Australia from a remote colony into a thriving global player.
Economically, multicultural Australia has been the backbone of its prosperity - they didn't just bring their cuisines or festivals; they brought trade networks, innovative ideas, and entrepreneurial spirit.
The ‘Voice’ poses the question: Is Australia as a nation prepared to prioritise one voice over the roaring chorus of multiculturalism that has driven the country’s economy?
Australia is woven together by shared values and mutual respect, and now risks being torn apart.
The proposition to amplify the Indigenous voice, could unintentionally silence others.
As Australia continues to become a melting pot of cultures, segregating representation is a dangerous play which could have disastrous consequences for future migration and economic trade.
Cultural events that dot Australia’s calendar, highlight the rich diversity Australians have come to cherish.
And yet, the ‘Voice’ runs the risk of overshadowing these celebrations, suggesting that some voices and traditions hold more weight than others.
The ‘Voice’ could be the beginning of a divisive era in Australian politics.
It's not about righting past wrongs; it's about ensuring a united future. By potentially sidelining Australia’s multicultural contributors, Australia is sending a dangerous message.
The resounding sentiment is clear: the ‘Voice’ is a potentially reckless gamble, risking the unity and cohesion that has been Australia's pride.
By favouring one group, the PM might be alienating a significant portion of the population.
Many migrant communities have expressed concerns about the potential perception that their contributions are being undervalued.
And while they openly declare they are all for justice and equal representation for Indigenous communities, they claim it's crucial to ensure it doesn't come at the cost of overshadowing the contributions of countless non-Indigenous Australians who've dedicated their lives to the advancing Australia’s progress.
To address these concerns, some suggest a more inclusive model that celebrates Australia's Indigenous heritage while also acknowledging the role of its multicultural communities.
Their Ideas range from establishing dedicated multicultural advisory committees to creating platforms where diverse groups can express their concerns and aspirations.
As Saturday approaches, the ‘Voice’ is more than just a political decision - it's a reflection of Australia's journey as a multicultural nation and its aspirations for a future where every voice counts, and no contribution is overshadowed.
The ‘Voice has sparked a poignant reminder: Australia's strength and identity are rooted in its diversity.
It’s important to right historical wrongs, it's equally vital to ensure multicultural Australia remains vibrant and intact.
This Saturday, amid the political turmoil and threats of war escalating throughout the Middle East and beyond, Ukraine/Russia, Taiwan and China, Australia faces is own challenges, the world regardless watches hoping Australia remains true to its multicultural legacy.