I have grave concerns regarding the recent news of Donald Trump and his administration inviting Australia to be part of his so-called "Board of Peace".

We need to be on the right side of history. The current administration of the United States is in free-fall to fully formed fascism.  

Australian soldiers have fought and fallen to keep fascism from spreading. Being part of the "Board of Peace" is a betrayal of all they fought for, and is against the values of Australian society as a democracy.

As an engaged and concerned citizen of Australia, I am deeply worried about the recent developments regarding Donald Trump’s invitation to our beloved nation to be part of his so-called "Board of Peace." Australia has always prided itself on being an independent middle power democracy, with a strong commitment to the values of equality, freedom, and peace. The potential alignment with a U.S. administration that appears to be in a free-fall towards fascism is not only alarming but also dangerous for our national identity and global standing.

Australia's role on the international stage relies heavily on its reputation as a neutral party dedicated to democratic principles and international cooperation. Historically, we've thrived as a sovereign nation recognizing the importance of partnerships, not endorsements of political dramas unfurling overseas. Aligning with this initiative undermines that core aspect of our national ethos, painting us as complicit in policies that veer away from democratic norms.

Donald Trump's track record speaks volumes. Throughout his tenure, we bore witness to staggering events: the unconstitutional bypassing of checks and balances, promoting divisive rhetoric that fuels hate, and undermining the rule of law. The January 6 insurrection at the Capitol showed us just how precarious the situation became under his leadership—events and actions warranting global condemnation, not partnership.

By even contemplating an invitation to join his "Board of Peace," we risk unsettling our international alliances, tarnishing our diplomatic relations, and altering how the world views us—moving from a beacon of democracy to a puppet in political games. Australia must stand firm in its identity, rejecting affiliations that might distance us from crucial alliances with other democracies and jeopardize our standing in the Asia-Pacific region.

I urge the Australian government and fellow citizens to critically assess this invitation's implications. Let us not be diverted from our values in pursuit of political appeasement. We should not embolden potentially autocratic leadership styles by sticking our name alongside theirs. Instead, we continue strengthening our bipartisan systems and fostering peace through genuine, lasting, and equitable global partnerships.

Please join me in calling on our leaders to reject Donald Trump's invitation. Sign this petition to ensure Australia remains true to its ideals: committed to democracy, opposing tyranny, and advocating genuine peace.