In 1988 we had a "Celebration of a Nation". With Australia Day, do we truly celebrate it? There are many issues needing to be addressed:

1. Why some see it as "Invasion Day" - when humans were not here first
2. Kevin Rudd's apology, has it made a real difference?
3. Tony Abbott wanting Aboriginal people noted in the Constitution
4. States wanting to pay compensation to the "Stolen Generation"
5. Some Australians still with xenophobic attitudes towards others

Should we regenerate or stay in a realm of disconnection and hate?
I believe it's vital that we look at what has worked in Australia and make the country we live in better - and not simply wait.

@ NathanJ

1. Why some see it as "Invasion Day" - when humans were not here first
Because there is a good money to be had in pushing that bandwagon.

2. Kevin Rudd's apology, has it made a real difference?
It was only ever a gimmick.

3. Tony Abbott wanting Aboriginal people noted in the Constitution
Big mistake!

4. States wanting to pay compensation to the "Stolen Generation"
Hmmmmmmmm "The states" "Wanting"this?
More the case that the more-handouts-industry is pushing it (and probably getting unlimited free airplay on the ABC & SBS)

5. Some Australians still with xenophobic attitudes towards others.
Apparently you can only be xenophobic if you are light skinned--if you are any other colour and dont want outsiders meddling in your backyard --you are a champion of your people.

SPQR,

The states "wanting" this - in terms of wanting to pay money to the "Stolen Generation" - yes they do - like Liberal leader Stephen Marshall in South Australia. Visit: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-08-24/sa-liberals-seek-to-change-stolen-generation-compensation/5692662 . This issue has come out more recently.

Personally I don't believe money (re that issue) is going to make a difference for any victim (unless it was something like a medical matter).

If something has happened in the past - buying something with money given today can't fix issues, relating to the Stolen Generation in any form. It's a physical impact - that I think some people won't be able to let go of - and that is why money, won't change how they feel.

Its actually NSW day...the day has absolutely nothing to do with the rest of Australia so the national day should be on Jan 1 to celebrate federation.