HAYLEY SORENSEN
as a tool to divide and suffocate debate.
Flag pins have adorned the lapels of American politicians almost constantly since September 11, 2001.
In that country, choosing not to wear a lapel pin is a far more radical statement than putting one on. In 2007, then presidential nominee Barack Obama had to explain why he left his lapels bare.
He did wear a pin in the days after September 11, he told reporters.
“Shortly after 9/11, particularly because as we’re talking about the Iraq war, that became a substitute for, I think, true patriotism, which is speaking out on issues that are of importance to our national security.
“I decided I won’t wear that pin on my chest.
“Instead I’m gonna try to tell the American people what I believe will make this country great and hopefully that will be a testimony to my patriotism.”
But he changed his mind just a few months after making that statement, and was photographed during most of his presidency with a metallic flag adorning his lapel.
Australians have generally preferred a quieter brand of patriotism to the Americans.
While American kids are required to pledge their allegiance to the flag at school every morning, most Australian kids would be lucky to be
There’s so much to remember – names, dates, this week’s prime minister . . .
able to mumble half the national anthem a few times a term.
Standing for the national anthem still isn’t considered a non-negotiable requirement for Australian crowds at sporting events.
Getting up from those tiny folding chairs requires more effort than it is worth and carries the danger of upsetting precariously balanced chips on laps. Placing hand on heart would likely necessitate putting down one’s drink and as such is generally out of the question.
That doesn’t mean our love of country and gratitude for the opportunities it grants us is any less than those who are the loudest about it.
If you need a symbol to remind you of who you are working for as a federal cabinet minister, you should probably consider a different job.