How did this blog suddenly get serious?...

So a while ago Stan mention this series to me, and I decided to check it out. I watched the first couple of episodes and have continued to watch it.

http://www.abc.net.au/tv/dumbdrunkracist/episodes/

I appreciate how this program is addressing/exploring social and cultural issues within Australia that the majority of the population are apparently oblivious of, or choose to disregard. Racism towards Indians and Muslims, the persecution of refugees, crime, the conditions of Indigenous Australians, 'Bogan' culture and same-sex relationships are all topics of discussion, that should all be afforded more consideration by the average Australian. (well, the human rights related issues, at least) The issues are complex and generally lack a clear solution, however I can make no sense of racism, *commence rant* how we can stand by idly while innocent men, women and children are being locked in detention centres (without any of the legal rights afforded to criminals), how the government (still) is not adequately addressing problems of housing, education and health for indigenous australians (and NO the Northern Intervention policy does NOT qualify as a viable solution) ... and seriously. How, in the 21st century are we still not recognising same sex relationships as legitimate?

A while ago I casually mentioned to my two best friends that I wouldn't get married until marriage equality was achieved. They were actually shocked. (which I was REALLY surprised by... wouldn't this seem typical of littlemishelle the hippy?) Anyway, of all the injustices that this great nation boasts (and don't get me wrong, while I'm far from a Nationalist, I am grateful to live here and recognise that things could be a lot worse) the issue of marriage equality seems to be the easiest to address. (just legally permit it - duh?) While homophobia and discrimination against LGBTI individuals may not be eliminated by this, it would be a major stepping stone, and an action that would speak louder than empty words, that suggest Australia is the 'land of a fair go', where people of all descriptions are accepted and tolerance prevails.

I may not have the knowledge base that some of my friends possess on human rights issues, but I do feel that I have a fairly good grasp of 'right and wrong'. While I generally maintain the view that everyone has a reason for acting as they do, and holding certain beliefs and convictions (context/nurture and all that tabula rasa/social conditioning shiz that we studied in lit - Frankenstein anyone?) I find it so difficult to understand how some people feel that just because of the position that they (by chance) were born into; the race, gender, sexual orientation, class, etc that they were dealt somehow puts them above another. It just doesn't make sense. There are so many things about the human race that I cannot understand.

*end rant* sorry about that...

Anyway, the initial intention of this post was to recommend this show to you. I think Little S and a few others (actually have no idea if anyone reads this) would appreciate it.

...don't be concerned...I'm sure my next post will be food photos/architecture/music related...

Here is a photo (for some comic relief) I took a while ago of some clothing tags I found amusing.

Peace out.
Time for dinner.
m.