Pauline Hanson Labels Welcome to Country 'Divisive' at National Press Club
Pauline Hanson, leader of the One Nation party, publicly declared the Welcome to Country ceremony to be "divisive" during her address to the National Press Club. This assertion was made at the very beginning of her speech, setting the tone for her presentation at the prominent national forum. Her remarks highlighted her party's position on the Indigenous cultural practice, which is a customary part of many public and official events across Australia, serving as an acknowledgment of traditional custodianship.
One Nation leader Pauline Hanson characterized the Welcome to Country ceremony as "divisive" during her recent address to the National Press Club. The contentious statement was delivered at the very beginning of her speech at the prominent national forum.
The National Press Club often hosts addresses from significant political figures, providing a platform for leaders to communicate their policy positions and perspectives to a national audience. Hanson's remarks at this venue placed her opinion on the cultural protocol into the public discourse.
The Welcome to Country is a significant Indigenous custom performed in Australia, typically by Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander elders or traditional owners. These ceremonies acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land and welcome visitors, playing a role in reconciliation and cultural recognition at various public and official gatherings across the country.
According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Hanson made these specific remarks regarding the Welcome to Country at the outset of her address.
