Victorian Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship Nicholas Kotsiras has caused quite a stir with his latest statement proposing the “australisation” of all students around Australia, who will be encouraged to sing the national anthem of the country at least once a week.
Mr. Kotsiras claimed being anxious over the fact that many students do not describe themselves as Australians but rather cling to their own ethnic origins. Therefore, the Greek-Australian Minister wants schools to teach an “Australian education” program which he says will help combat racism.
He does not believe singing the anthem would be divisive or ostracise children from migrant families.
“My policy is about keeping our cultural identity but also uniting us as Victorians, as Australians,” he said. “Now that children are still young, they must be encouraged to integrate to the Australian society, otherwise they will continue feeling like outsiders. And that would threaten the peaceful coexistence of Australia’s multicultural society” continued Mr. Kotsiras.
Opponents of Kotsiras claimed that the Australian anthem is already being sang at schools once a week but does not help students become more Australian in any way. According to them, migrants’ children must be approached in a totally different manner and with much more sensitivity and respect towards their ethnic background.
Mr. Kotsiras’ statement covered the front page of Herald Sun daily and was among the headlines of all Australian newspapers.
“Many times education is far better than legislation,” he told ABC local radio.
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