Yesterday's events in Sydney left me, and many others, feeling hurt and betrayed by someone we once held in high regard. Grace Tame, who has inspired many across our nation with her advocacy, stepped away from the values we cherish when she used hateful rhetoric at the protest march.

The Australian of the Year Award is a prestigious honour bestowed upon individuals who embody the best qualities our country has to offer. It stands as a beacon of integrity, inclusivity, and respect. It is crucial that recipients of this award consistently uphold these values not only in their advocacy but also in their words and actions.

While advocacy for crucial issues sometimes involves strong words and passionate speeches, there is a line that should never be crossed—one where rhetoric becomes divisive and harmful. The language used by such an influential figure not only diminishes the respect for her contributions but can also sow seeds of division among communities, which endangers the very fabric of our multicultural society.

Even the most notable achievements should not shield any individual from accountability. Allowing Ms. Tame to retain her title, despite the use of harmful rhetoric, sends a dangerous message that such behaviour is condoned by our society and its institutions. This undermines the accountability that is expected of those who carry such esteemed titles and sets a worrying precedent for the future.

We respect and appreciate Ms. Tame's previous work in advocacy, particularly around important social issues. However, maintaining the sanctity of the Australian of the Year title is paramount. It should reflect not just past achievements but ongoing adherence to the highest standards of conduct.

This petition is not a dismissal of Ms. Tame's achievements, but a call for her to face responsibility for her recent actions. By revoking her Australian of the Year Honor, we can reinforce the principle that this recognition carries a responsibility to promote unity and respect, even in the face of passionate advocacy.

Join me in urging the selection committee to reconsider the honour bestowed on Grace Tame to uphold the values that this award represents. Please sign and share this petition to ensure that our national awards remain symbols of integrity and respect.