Kim Peart Brisbane
ARE conscientious objectors welcome at ANZAC Day events?
During the Vietnam War conscription was introduced to press young men into military service, with many objecting on political grounds and others for religious reasons. While some went into hiding from the military police, many went to court to state their case and face the consequences.
ANZAC Day is now promoted as a national day, even quasi-religious in nature, as a day for “all” Australians and this is actively promoted by the Federal Government. As a conscientious objector during the Vietnam War, who appeared in court in Hobart and has a letter affirming this, dated 11 May 1972, I would not feel comfortable or welcome at ANZAC Day events.
A few years ago I was told off by a fellow conservationist for organising a public event on ANZAC Day in the fight to question the Ralphs Bay canal development proposal, because they claimed it was a sacred day and should not be sullied by other events.
While the focus of ANZAC day is war, it appears to exclude folk who walk the way of peace and non-violence like Mahatma Gandhi. This is most unfortunate for a day that supposedly includes “all” Australians. Is there another way?
Rather than focusing on war, could ANZAC Day become a day of “peace”, which is a sentiment that all Australians can agree with. Would ANZAC Day marches then include conscientious objectors, marching under the banner of peace?
