One of the reasons Australians want a republic is because we feel embarassed to hear that in official functions our foreign diplomats stand to their feet and toast the Queen as our legitimate leader. Also we feel disappointed for our kids when we have to tell them they can't aspire to be the Australian head of state. We cringe when we hear the Barmy Army mockingly sing 'God Save Your Queen' at the Ashes. In essence, we are patriots. We want Australia to be completely sovereign and independent. That's wahy Australia Day is a special day for republicans. It's a day we like to celebrate and honour with fervour and passion.
On Australia Day 2009 dozens of Postcode Parties were held around Australia in parks and at beaches where a glass was raised to the coming republic. It is this involvement of the Australian community at a grassroots level that bodes well for future change.
The republic is about national identity. It's about having pride and confidence in us as Australians. It's about the future of our country and Australia's place in the world in the twentyfirst century. It is something that is well worth fighting for and the process that will allow us to reach the goal is a potentially unifying national experience.
Three cheers for the coming republic!
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