True Blue Australian country music singer songwriter John Williamson has publicly shared two open letters addressed to politician Pauline Hanson, discussing immigration, Australian identity and the national flag.
The first letter focused on multiculturalism and Williamson’s experiences travelling through regional Australia during his music career. He wrote:
“Dear Pauline,
As someone who has stayed in country towns for 56 years, I have to say that dinners before the show have improved out of sight. Even your fish ‘n’ chip shop concept was brought here by the Greeks.
In Sydney, there would not be one restaurant we know that is not owned or served by those you seem to despite.
What are you holding on to? None of us really own Australia. We simply earn the privilege to be a part of it.
John Williamson
True Blue”
A second letter, posted roughly 12 hours later, addressed Hanson’s comments about Australia’s national flag and included a proposed alternative flag design. The image featured the Southern Cross and a kangaroo, but noticeably the Union Jack was missing.
Williamson wrote:
“Hi again Pauline,
You are really bothered by the fact we seem to have two or three flags representing our country. I am bothered by that too. So why don’t we have a flag that brings us all together? The current National British ensign that racists wrap themselves in surely doesn’t do the job.
John Williamson
True Blue”
The letters were widely shared online and sparked discussion about national identity, immigration and the symbolism of the Australian flag. Williamson, known for songs including True Blue, has previously spoken publicly about Australian culture and unity.
Countrytown brings you Australia’s best country music news, interviews, charts and more every week! This post was authored by Countrytown and originally published on the Countrytown website. It has been re-published with permission.
