ABORIGINAL RECOGNITION
Congratulations to the Launceston City Council who voted unanimously to fly the Aboriginal flag on a permanent basis at the Launceston Town Hall.
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This a great first step to acknowledging Aboriginal land ownership, the Aboriginal community and the responsibilities of all those who hold power in this state to reconcile with Aborigines for the invasion and dispossession of our lands.
READ MORE: Popular taco bar opens up in Launceston
It is ironic that directly across the road at the Premiers office, a plaque commemorating ''The discovery of this island by Hon. Abel Tasman'' remains plastered on the wall.
It seems absurd that the premier would continue to promote such a racist myth while publicly committing to ''truth telling and reconciliation'' with Aborigines. It needs to be removed.
Nala Mansell, Nipaluna/Hobart
What do you think? Send us a letter to the editor:
MANAGEMENT OF OUTBREAKS
Whilst attending primary school almost 70 years ago, Tasmanians were confronted with two significant viral outbreaks - poliomyelitis and tuberculosis.
Society, particularly via health authorities, reacted. Infection control became a part of daily life. One of the key procedures was a strong education campaign to prevent spitting in public. But, seemingly, not now.
Spitting, apparently, has become a mandatory part of the game, especially AFL football. Almost every time there is a closeup of AFL players on TV broadcasts there is an obligatory spit.
I do not witness tennis players spitting, nor female footballers.
It is time to reintroduce 1950 hygiene standards.
GENUINE SUPPORT
Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist. Fast forward to Tasmania in 2021, where a simple "thank you" is rarely enough. If you think we have moved on, please think again.
People living in communities across Tasmania are too often subjected to benevolent, usually subliminal "bludgers can't be choosers and are a drain on the tax payers" messages delivered by groups entrusted to uplift and deliver dignified support.
There are exceptions, including neighbourhood houses.
For example, Northern Suburbs Community Centre. The welcoming people working there work from a base of genuine dignity and respect.
Politicians still prance on cleverly manipulated pedestals, telling the world how wonderful they are by supporting the community. But behind the scenes they are ripping rugs out from under people. No wonder the powers that be want to build yet another prison, because in all truthfulness, we are still living in Van Diemen's Land.
Deb Johnston Andrews, Mayfield
AFGHAN INTERPRETORS
The federal immigration minister says Australia has no intention of a mass evacuation of the Afghan interpreters, to safety. No of course not.
We abandon our mates, leave them to be killed by the Taliban and ISS.