That’s Freedom
I seem to remember when pride in being strong and free was core to Australian culture. As if it was just there, an inalienable right, an asset gifted from generation to generation, for all, without prejudice. Farnham kicked “young and free” into the 90's and his song, that’s Freedom was the backdrop of the decade, a time before the world went mad.
Sure, it was a cover of an American song, but it fit like a pair of R.M. Williams boots and an Akubra hat. That’s freedom was ours, a better, more laid back freedom than anywhere else in the world, and we bloody well knew it. Fast forward (not the TV show ... seriously), the central pillar, the foundation of freedom, free speech, is now under direct and sustained threat.
This is not a game, a group of cowardly politicians, too afraid of scrutiny, want to remove our grasp on integrity, truth and accountability. Like it or not, free speech is what separates Australia from North Korea. The right to challenge, particularly the political class, the right to question and debate is crucial.
No matter the subject or the arena. Without free speech, we are not a free nation, that will be the past. Being silenced for your safety is a horrendous if not dangerous idea. There is no safety in the cold quiet of darkness.
No Australian patriot ever put on a gag to please their neighbour, their Prime Minister, or their boss, let’s not start now. The next Government has to close the eSafety Commission. It’s absolutley time to add free speech to our constition.
“I don't know what you want from me
Or what you think a love ought to be
I want something that's open and strong
As the country this road's moving on
From the mountain to the valley
From the ocean to the alley
From the highway to the river
One emotion to deliver
One heart One way
One love
To share but not to chain”