A Controversial Anzac Tribute Sparks Outrage
A recent post by a Labor senator has caused significant controversy after it was revealed that she shared an Anzac Day tribute on her official Instagram account, which featured sexually explicit lyrics from a rap song. The video, which included images and snippets from the Launceston cenotaph Anzac service, sparked backlash from social media users who found the content disrespectful.
The video, which was posted on Saturday, featured a mash-up of American rapper Chingy’s 2006 song A$$ n da Aurr and the Australian national anthem. Chingy, known for his work with artists such as Nelly and Ludacris, is best recognized for his 2003 hit Right Thurr. The lyrics of A$$ n da Aurr include lines that invite women onto a nightclub dancefloor, such as “we came to make you dance, baby,” “girl, I like your body; I’m trying to be with somebody,” and “now put ya hands on the ground, put your a** in da aurr.”
The video remained online for at least a day before it was deleted on Monday. Alongside the video, Senator Polley wrote a caption expressing gratitude to those who attended the Anzac Day commemoration in Launceston. She stated, “Launceston Cenotaph Service and both services had the biggest crowds ever,” and thanked the Launceston RSL and LCC.
Social media users were quick to respond to the post, with many calling it “disrespectful” to Anzac veterans. One commenter wrote, “Would you play this song at a funeral procession? This is the most disrespectful Anzac Day post I have seen in a while.” Another said, “I don’t think you realise how disrespectful this music choice is. From a former serving member please stop this.”
In another instance, a comment was made on a separate Anzac tribute video that featured a slideshow of images accompanied by a rendition of the Last Post. The comment read, “Did you delete the collage where you put A$$ in the air (sic) by Chingy as the song? Disrespectful filth?”
Senator Polley’s office was contacted for comment on the video, and a spokesperson told Pulse Tasmania that she is a woman who has “spent her life giving thanks to those who have served our nation.” The spokesperson added, “The senator has written and spoken at length about her father’s bravery and how it has inspired her and gave thanks again at Saturday’s service in Launceston to all of our service men and women.”
It is understood that the rap music may have been an honest mistake, but it is not clear whether the video was posted by Senator Polley herself or a member of her team. In a separate tribute on her Instagram, Senator Polley remembered her father, a war veteran, and his service on Anzac Day morning.
Ms Polley was elected to the Senate for Tasmania in 2004 and was re-elected in 2010, 2016, and 2022. Her career has been marked by a commitment to public service and advocacy for veterans’ issues. However, this recent incident has raised questions about the appropriateness of her actions and the need for greater sensitivity when commemorating Anzac Day.
