Yassmin’s divisive ways harm community
RECENT comments by Yassmin Abdel- Magied, which were offensive towards war veterans, has sparked an unhealthy chain reaction of opinions, which creates division within our community.
Yassmin may not feel this pain within the larger population centre where she lives, but in smaller communities such as ours, where people look each other in the eye and say “G’day” every day, the impact of such negativity is in our face.
Ms Abdel- Magied does not represent the views of multicultural communities nor Muslims on this subject.
Generally migrants, who have chosen Australia as their home, have a great respect for the cultural and moral aspirations of Australian and Aboriginal people.
There are also many Australian war veterans and their families who oppose what is happening on Manus Island.
Therefore, the idea of any disrespect towards war veterans as means of creating awareness about the Manus Island issue is wrong to start with.
Unfortunately, Yassmin’s comments are taken seriously because of the fame she enjoys by appearing on ABC programs.
What Ms Abdul- Magied is engaged in, is a popularity contest, which creates a small group of admirers at the expense of hurting the larger majority.
This is called wedge politics and many politicians do exactly the same but on the opposite side. However, the end result is dividing the community simply to enhance one person’s notoriety.
As we are getting closer to Christmas celebrations, we need to generate a feeling for community oneness and unity.
Therefore, I would like to assure the Townsville community that respect for war veterans is the very least that every newcomer can offer in return for veteran’s sacrifices.
I also hope we all do a better job at raising awareness about the Australian cultural narrative, our ancient and modern history and our sacred commemorations. DR FARVARDIN
DALIRI OAM, Townsville Intercultural
Centre Ltd.