A recent poll reveals a stark generational divide on Australia Day, with younger Australians less likely to support the January 26th date. The article explores the reasons behind this difference, highlighting the younger generation's sensitivity towards the historical context of the day and their tendency towards self-criticism. It also calls for a greater sense of national pride among young Australians, urging them to learn from the older generation's experiences and recognize the nation's achievements.
Recent polling suggests that the younger you are, the more likely you are to supportof the holiday. According to the Resolve Political Monitor, only 35 per cent of Australians aged 18 to 34 support the January 26 placement. When I speak to my friends and peers, this finding rings true among most of them, for whom Australia Day is met with reticence at best.
Growing up, I have seen more than just a sensitivity and decency among my generation, more than just an estimable decision to refrain from commemorating a difficult date. What I have witnessed, not just on occasions like Australia Day but year-round, is a significant sense of shame in our country and a deep-rooted, tacit feeling of guilt. I have noticed a popular sentiment that the Australian story is not worth our admiration.
This finding represents something that lies at the heart of so many young people’s attitudes towards Australia: we take life here for granted.While our grandparents and, to a lesser extent, our parents grew up with tales of national crises barely averted – the threat of invasion during World War II, for example – such moments have receded from our collective memory. Meanwhile, the country has prospered through a lengthy peacetime, its newest generation emerging unfazed.
That’s why, as Australia Day nears and the inevitable debate bubbles over at family gatherings, the nation’s younger citizens would do well to pull up a chair next to their older relatives. We could learn the importance of pride and reflection on what’s great about our country , while many of our elders could follow our example of sensitivity.
Society Australia Day Generational Divide National Pride Sensitivity Reflection
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Australia Day: A Generational DivideThis article explores the growing divide in Australia regarding the celebration of Australia Day on January 26th. It highlights the generational differences in attitudes towards the national holiday, emphasizing the younger generation's inclination towards sensitivity and introspection, while older Australians tend to uphold tradition and national pride. The author argues for a more nuanced approach, encouraging both generations to learn from each other and to celebrate Australia's achievements while acknowledging its past failings.
Read more »
Mourning and Reflection Mark Australia Day for First Nations AustraliansA mourning and reflection ceremony, We-Akon Dilinja, took place in St Kilda, Melbourne, on Australia Day, attracting around 250 people. Boonwurrung elder Fay Stewart-Muir delivered a powerful speech highlighting the importance of cultural connection and criticizing the ongoing inequities faced by First Nations Australians stemming from colonization.
Read more »
Smith and Cummins Power Australia on Day Two of Boxing Day TestSteve Smith and Pat Cummins put on a century stand to power Australia on day two of the Boxing Day Test against India. The Australians made the most of batting-friendly conditions at the MCG, while Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul provided some resistance for India.
Read more »
Australia Dominates Day 2 of Boxing Day TestAustralia takes a commanding lead against India on day three of the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.
Read more »
Australia Sets India a Record Chase on Day 4 of Boxing Day TestAustralia holds a commanding lead in the Boxing Day Test against India, setting a record chase for the tourists. Despite a stellar last-wicket partnership between Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland, the outcome of the match remains uncertain.
Read more »
Australia Hunts Victory as India Chases Record Score on Day Five of Boxing Day TestAustralia seeks victory on day five of the Boxing Day Test against India at the MCG. India needs to chase down a record score of 340 to win.
Read more »