The poem 'Welcome' by Ziggy Ramo is a powerful commentary on the complex and often contradictory relationship between Indigenous Australians and the broader Australian society. Ramo's work delves into the historical and cultural tensions that underpin the country's celebrations of Anzac Day, a day meant to commemorate the sacrifices of soldiers who fought for Australia. The poem's central theme revolves around the booing of a Welcome to Country performed by Uncle Ray Minniecon at an Anzac Day dawn service, an incident that highlights the ongoing struggle for recognition and respect faced by Indigenous Australians.
Ramo's use of language is both evocative and thought-provoking. The opening lines, 'I’d like to acknowledge / the lack of knowledge,' set the tone for the entire piece, suggesting that the acknowledgment of Indigenous history and culture is often lacking or superficial. The phrase 'We renamed the Frontier Wars / the forgotten' further emphasizes the marginalization of Indigenous history, where the violent conflicts between settlers and Indigenous peoples are often omitted from the national narrative.
One of the most striking aspects of the poem is its critique of the idea of 'pride in your genocide.' Ramo challenges the notion that Australians should take pride in their colonial past, arguing that the land was stolen and that there is no debt to collect. This statement is a direct response to the historical and ongoing dispossession of Indigenous lands and the subsequent erasure of Indigenous cultures. The line 'Fascism is on the rise / and the room starts clapping' is particularly powerful, suggesting that the denial of Indigenous rights and the perpetuation of colonial ideologies are still prevalent in Australian society.
The poem also explores the idea of a 'Welcome to Country' as more than just a ritual. Ramo argues that it is an assertion of continuing sovereignty and custodianship, a statement of Indigenous presence and resilience. The act of booing Uncle Ray's welcome, therefore, becomes a symbol of a country that wants the comfort of ceremony without the responsibility of truth. This dichotomy is a central theme in the poem, highlighting the tension between acknowledging Indigenous culture and the ongoing denial of their rights and histories.
In my opinion, Ramo's 'Welcome' is a crucial contribution to the ongoing dialogue around Indigenous rights and representation in Australia. It serves as a reminder that the country's history is not a monolithic narrative, but rather a complex tapestry of experiences and perspectives. The poem's blunt and unflinching language forces readers to confront the uncomfortable truths of Australia's past and present, making it an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous Australians.
