Part 5/9:
Respect and Recognition: A Matter of Choice
When questioned about her refusal to participate in the "Welcome to Country," Hanson clarified her stance, emphasizing that respect is earned and that she personally chooses not to show automatic respect to individuals or protocols she views as politicized or overused.
"It’s not about disrespect," she explained. "It’s about standing up for my own country as an Australian. Respect should be based on that, not token gestures."
She challenged the idea that paying respect to Indigenous traditions and landowners is inherently respectful, especially when she feels these practices are being exploited for political purposes.