Why ANZAC Day Must Never Be Cancelled
ED: The following is my letter to the editor in response to the video “Should ANZAC Day be Cancelled”
Every year on 25 April, Australians pause to honour the bravery, sacrifice, and mateship of our soldiers – the ANZACs – who forged our national character on the battlefields of Gallipoli and beyond. ANZAC Day is more than a commemoration of war; it is a defining symbol of Australian identity and resilience. It binds generations through shared remembrance and respect for those who gave their lives for our freedom.
Yet, disturbingly, there are voices – often from recent immigrant communities or fringe activist groups – calling for ANZAC Day to be abolished or rebranded. This idea is not only untenable, but a direct affront to the values that built this nation. ANZAC Day is not about glorifying conflict. It is about honour, sacrifice, and unity – values that should be embraced, not erased.
Australia’s immigration program has brought great contributions over the decades. But it must be said: the success of our multicultural society depends on cultural cohesion. We cannot continue welcoming large numbers of immigrants who hold values fundamentally opposed to our own – particularly if they show little interest in integration, or worse, seek to alter our institutions, laws, and traditions.
We’ve seen the consequences overseas – in parts of Europe and the UK – where rapid, unfiltered immigration has led to cultural fragmentation, rising tensions, and the erosion of national identity. We must learn from this and act decisively.
Our political leaders, especially in the major parties, continue to push mass immigration to boost GDP statistics and swing votes in marginal seats. But the long-term cost is our way of life. Australians must use their vote to back candidates who support cultural compatibility, lower immigration, and strong national values.
ANZAC Day is a line in the sand. If we allow it to be diluted or cancelled, we signal that nothing is sacred. It’s time to stand up for Australia – its history, its values, and its future.
