Tell him he’s dreaming!

Society is changing, but that doesn’t change who we are

The Australia in which I grew up was stereotypical of what is portrayed in movies like The Castle. There was mum and dad, the kids, barbeques and beer. It was Aussie Rules football in winter and cricket in summer. Anyone or anything different to this was “not normal.” Consequently, many groups and cultures tended to keep their heads down and tried hard not to stand out and attract attention—and subsequent derision.

For example, when I first started working and attending seminars or professional development events, there was no vegetarian option come mealtime, and often the only drinks were alcoholic. Over time, this has changed. Now I have to be quick or miss out on the non-alcoholic drinks because it’s become increasingly trendy to abstain. Long gone are the days when people would look disapprovingly or mutter “un-Australian” under their breath as I declined their offer of a beer.

I’m finding in recent years that more and more groups are stepping out of the shadows and being much more open about who they are. Take, for instance, the number of dedicated themed rounds highlighting the diversity of our society that occur during most sporting competitions.

Diversity is much more accepted now—and even aggressively promoted—sometimes at the expense of other groups. Society is ever-changing. It’s good that previously marginalised people and groups are finding their identity and no longer have to hide. I just hope the pendulum doesn’t swing too far the other way, which potentially sees discrimination shifting to other groups.

Reflecting on this, I also hope organisations whose foundations are in Christian values don’t shrink away from who they are and to which values they ascribe. Now is not the time to hide or be embarrassed. Be proud and stand up for what you believe.