Resisting the path to US-style polarisation
Violet Roumeliotis AM
Executive leader and advocate for equality and a diverse Australia.
The growing polarisation in the United States following the re-election of Donald Trump serves as a cautionary tale of what can happen when social and racial divisions are inflamed. The consequences — particularly for marginalised communities — are profound. As Australia faces similar threats to social cohesion, it is critical we resist following this path of division.?
In his inaugural address, Trump stated “We will be a nation like no other, full of compassion, courage, and exceptionalism.” Yet his policies and rhetoric told a different story — one that seems to exclude from these ideals LGBTQI+ individuals, humanitarian entrants, and migrants.??
More than 20 executive orders were introduced on Trump’s first day in office. Actions such as revoking birthright citizenship and restricting transgender and gender-diverse individuals’ rights, legislated marginalisation of entire communities. The mass pardoning of January 6 rioters alongside troubling symbols of extremism signals an alarming tolerance for far-right extremism. signals an alarming tolerance for far-right extremism.??
This rhetoric and policy direction risk fueling social fragmentation not only within the US but in Australia. Recent events such as: antisemitic hate speech and attacks, Neo-Nazi activists marching in Adelaide, and the disturbing ‘normalisation of Islamophobia’ underscore the urgency of protecting our social fabric. Similarly, the temporary abortion ban at a hospital in regional NSW and renewed calls to limit abortion access and reproduction rights highlight a concerning push to erode our fundamental freedoms.?
Australia is not immune to revisionist narratives that cast our differences as a threat. Claims that multicultural policies have failed ignore the strength we derive from diversity — be it cultural, linguistic, sexual, or gender based. Far from being a liability, these differences enrich our society. The 2024 Scanlon Mapping Social Cohesion report, shows that diversity continues to be a valued part of our national identity. Despite increased local and international pressures, the report found a clear majority of Australians — 85% — continue to believe multiculturalism is a good thing for our nation. We cannot single out and alienate specific communities to undermine the inclusive foundation our nation was built on.??
To weather the coming years as a unified nation, we must embrace the diversity of our communities and reject the politics of fear. This requires strong leadership that champions inclusion protects the rights of all individuals and upholds the principles of equality. We must resist political finger-pointing and ’rage bait’ tactics that exploit societal anxieties and instead redirect our focus to strengthening community ties and celebrating our shared values.?
Trump’s presidency may have shone a light on intolerance, but it also serves as a reminder of what is at stake when division goes unchecked. The stakes are too high to allow polarisation to take hold here. By standing firm against hate and division, we can ensure that Australia remains a nation defined by inclusion, compassion, and resilience.?
Social Demographer Master's in Social Work, Data Analysis
1 周While concerns about polarisation are valid, drawing direct parallels between Trump’s presidency and Australia’s social cohesion oversimplifies the issue. Unlike the U.S., Australia’s political landscape lacks the deep-seated racial and ideological divides that fuel American partisanship. While incidents of extremism and discrimination exist, they remain fringe rather than mainstream. Multiculturalism in Australia is broadly supported, as the 2024 Scanlon Mapping Social Cohesion Report indicates that 85% of Australians see it as a positive force. While challenges exist, they should not be conflated with an impending breakdown of social cohesion. Australia’s robust democratic institutions, strong anti-discrimination laws, and civic engagement efforts provide a buffer against the levels of division seen in the U.S. Moreover, political differences do not inherently lead to fragmentation. Debate and ideological diversity are vital to democracy. Rather than fearing polarisation, we should focus on fostering informed discussions and promoting policies that encourage integration and social harmony. The key to unity is not avoiding disagreements but ensuring that discourse remains civil, evidence-based, and solutions-oriented.
Consultant
3 周As a long time volunteer at SSI and an admirer of what we have achieved I was shocked and saddened at the inferences in Violets article. I do not believe Trumps actions can be compared to our situation in Australia. The main stream voter here has proven in the past that we value immigration and all that it has added to our society .Yes there are elements such as illustrated in Adelaide recently however to infer Tromps actions translate to Australia is in my opinion alarmist. I sincerely believe the "average" Australian sees what is happening in the USA and celebrates the fact we have proven this is one of the healthiest places to live on Earth. Some balance please Violet Peter Rose
Founder/Chair, Food for Thought Network-(PRO BONO),Author/Editor/Teacher/Academic/Change Agent/Culture Discruptor
3 周Very informative, it is my fear also dear Violet.
Executive Manager Community Investment at the Commonwealth Bank | Social Impact | Customer Vulnerability | Financial Inclusion | Australia-India
4 周Well said Violet! It is certainly time for our voices to unite, and hands to join to protect our shared values and beautiful multicultural fabric.
Principal Director Institute for Equity in International Education Course Facilitator at RMIT Online Lecturer Trans National Education Victoria University CEO Equicell Australia CEO Bio-Lab Pathology
1 个月I agree completely with multiculturism and inclusivity. As commented by Natalie, education, correct information and transparency. We need to work together and not let the nay-sayers weaponise it politically. Elections are coming soon, exercise your civil right and vote according to your conscience.