We Won’t Solve Our Nazi Problem Until We Cut the Great Australian Bullshit

The recent neo-Nazi rally in Melbourne's CBD was a stark reminder of the ongoing issue of fascist activity in Australia. The group of neo-Nazis took to the streets, storming down thoroughfares with their offensive symbols and racist slogans. But what's behind this resurgence of hate groups? And why is it that our politicians continue to avoid discussing the root causes of this problem?

A recent quote from Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan sparked my interest: "Nazis don't belong in this country." While her words may seem straightforward, I believe they reveal a deeper issue. Australia's history is replete with examples of fascist activity and thought, which has created a space for these groups to thrive.

Let's take the opening of the Sydney Harbour Bridge in 1932 as an example. We were taught that the ceremony was foiled by "Australian larrikinism," but what we didn't learn was that Francis de Groot, the man who rode through on horseback, slicing the official ribbon with his sword, was a member of the fascist paramilitary group The New Guard.

This omission is not an isolated incident. Australia's history is riddled with examples of white supremacy and racism. From the White Australia policy to the sterilization of disabled people conducted by Family Planning NSW, these events demonstrate a long-standing problem that has been swept under the rug.

The Australian Workers' Union (AWU) founder William Guthrie Spence was also a raging white supremacist. His views on racial purity and efficiency are still eerily relevant today, and it's astonishing how often his legacy is erased from union hagiography.

A Cycle of Ignorance

The problem runs deep, and it's not just about neo-Nazis and far-right groups. It's a symptom of a broader cultural issue – the Great Australian Silence. This phenomenon refers to the reluctance of Australians to discuss their country's complex history, including its dark past.

This silence has allowed fascist ideologies to flourish. The recent neo-Nazi rally in Melbourne is just one example of how these groups have been emboldened by the lack of discussion and education about their ideology.

A Solution to the Problem

So, what can we do to address this issue? The answer lies not in grand statements from politicians or promises to better equip the police. Cutting the Great Australian Bullshit requires a fundamental shift in how we approach our country's history and its ongoing impact on society.

We need to confront the myths that have been perpetuated for so long – myths about Australia being a "white country" and the false doctrine of terra nullius. We need to acknowledge the historical injustices faced by Indigenous Australians and recognize the importance of their culture and contributions to our nation.

By doing so, we can create space for honest discussions about our history and its ongoing impact on society. We can work together to build a more inclusive and equitable Australia, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive – regardless of their background or identity.

The Future of Australia Depends On It

The recent neo-Nazi rally in Melbourne was a wake-up call for our country. But it's not just about responding to hate groups; it's about creating a future where Australians can live without fear of racism and discrimination.

This future requires us to confront our past and its ongoing impact on society. It demands that we prioritize education, critical thinking, and empathy – values that have been missing from many aspects of our culture for far too long.

Let's work together to build a more inclusive Australia, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. The future of our country depends on it.