In this twenty-first century the Australian flag is displayed as never before. Half a century ago it was missing from flag poles on national holidays - such as Australia day. This was a source of annoyance to the government and many citizens. Those visiting the United States were surprised to see " Old Glory " flying from private homes - the top of construction cranes - and even in offices and public buildings. It was everywhere !
This was at a time when we were still discovering our identity. On ANZAC day there is much talk of fighting for " flag and country ", but in reality many military units displayed the Union Jack. The Australian flag was not well known to either foe or ally - and it was deemed more important to be recognised as part of " the British " side.
Unfortunately this adoption of the Australian flag now seems to have become part of a nationalistic crusade. To some it has become a symbol of Australian rejection of those of a different skin colour, religion or homeland.
Our flag should be an expression of Australian pride - not a refusal to share with those who come here in peace !
The attitude that goes with wrapping oneself in the Australian flag has become divisive. Those that feel rejected look for something to cling to that represents their interests - and we recently saw opposing Sri Lankan demonstrations flying the Sri Lankan flag by Sinhalese nationalists - and a flag with a Tiger head representing Tamils. There were no Australian flags flown by either group.
As divisive as the flag issue is national dress. Women from India tend to cling to their Sari. Muslim women wear the head scarf. Strangely, this form of identity with a foreign land seems mostly concentrated on the female gender. It is common in parts of Sydney to see a fully veiled woman in the streets. Less common is the sight of a male wearing a dishdasha !
It will be a shame if jingoism turns our flag into a symbol of nationalistic oppression of others. It should be remembered that the Nazi's turned an Indian good luck symbol - the swastika - into something representing war, cruelty and oppression hated world wide.
We need to think carefully what we mean - when we wrap ourselves in our flag !
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