Tuesday 21st March 2023

 Tuesday 21^st March

SHE SAID:

I read on the ABC that today is Harmony Day in Australia, I became an Australian citizen on this day in 2005.

What I didn’t realize was that across the world it is called “International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination”. And that the Howard government in 1999 decided to rename it Harmony Day to “dumb-down” the message. The original name came about, about 6 years after the Sharpeville Massacre in South Africa in 1960. The UN decreed that this day would be reminder of what came out of a peaceful rally to change the awful apartheid pass laws in South Africa at the time.

The naming of the 21st March would be a way to remember the sacrifice of these peaceful protesters. So, it isn’t really a celebratory day at all.

A few more of the sculptures from yesterday's hot walk

HE SAID:

Mick and I chilled at the house in the morning while Jacqui worked from home. In the afternoon we headed to Katoomba for some groceries, and so that I could have a quick familiarisation with the hybrid car. Mick and Jac will lend it to me to get to Canberra then Mick will join me there, coming by train. I am still annoyed at Bayswater hire cars but Mick and Jac's offer of their car was an excellent rescue.

Mick whipped up a very tasty prawn, feta and tomato dinner, with polenta chips and salad. It was a very good meal, with lots of wine and banter.