Reflections on an Inappropriate Dance at a Royal Australian Navy Commissioning Ceremony

A Royal Australian Navy Commissioning Ceremony Reveals Missed Opportunities

The recent commissioning ceremony for a Royal Australian Navy (RAN) vessel highlighted a misstep in cultural representation and erasure of boundaries between tradition and exoticization. The official commissioning ceremony was ultimately overshadowed by an inappropriate and embarrassing dance performance by an indigenous dance troupe, featuring a dance style known as twerking, which is often associated with American pop culture. This incident not only reflects a lack of adequate vetting processes but also raises serious questions about cultural sensitivity and representation within military events.

Failure of Pre-Event Screening and Cultural Awareness

The underlying issue stems from a lack of proper vetting and pre-event planning. It was clear that the organizers failed to thoroughly research the dance troupe or understand the cultural significance of twerking before selecting it as the performance act for the ceremony. As Naval personnel are often sensitive to cultural nuances and traditions, the absence of a rigorous screening process is alarming. The involvement of a high-profile event in such an inappropriate and culturally insensitive manner underscores a severe lapse in judgment and protocol.

Potential Misidentification of Participants

Initial reports suggested confusion around the identity of the dance troupe and their connection to the Royal Australian Navy. Further investigation clarified that the performers were not actually Navy personnel, and the dance style had no historical link to Australian traditions. Reports suggest that this was a dance choice that went unchecked, leading to an awkward and embarrassing display. The misidentification of the performers as Navy personnel added to the widespread misunderstanding and subsequent controversy, which illustrated the need for clearer communication and accurate representation.

Defamation and Misleading Reporting

The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) faced criticism for their role in the incident, particularly for attempting to mislead the public about the presence of high-ranking officials during the ceremony. The ABC’s reported script modifications were deemed inappropriate by many, indicating a breakdown in ethics and accountability. The combination of these actions has resulted in further embarrassment and scrutiny, lending credibility to accusations of cultural insensitivity and mismanagement.

Future of Commissioning Ceremonies in the RAN

In response to this incident, there is speculation that commissioning ceremonies will undergo significant changes. Rather than incorporating inappropriate or controversial dance performances, it is likely that the RAN will revert to more traditional and respectful formats. The future might see a return to military bands and traditional marches, which align more closely with the steadfast and proud traditions of the RAN. Martial songs like “Waltzing Matilda” and solemn blessings by clergy could reassert a sense of dignity and reverence, making the ceremonies a celebration of service and heritage rather than mishaps in cultural representation.

Conclusion

This episode serves as a stark reminder of the importance of cultural sensitivity, particularly in high-profile military events. The mishap with the twerking dance at the RAN commissioning ceremony highlights the need for better vetting, thorough research, and respect for cultural traditions. While it might be tempting to seek out new and exciting cultural representations, doing so without proper consideration can lead to embarrassing and costly mistakes. In the end, the most critical lesson is to prioritize cultural integrity and respect in all official capacities.