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What happened
On November 24, 2025, Australian Senator Pauline Hanson wore a burqa in Parliament to protest against the rejection of her bill aimed at banning full-face coverings in public. This act was met with outrage from Muslim senators, who accused her of racism. The Senate erupted in anger, leading to a suspension of proceedings when Hanson refused to remove the burqa. Prominent political figures, including Penny Wong and Anne Ruston, condemned her actions as unworthy of a senator. Hanson, known for her anti-immigration stance, previously wore a burqa in 2017 for similar reasons. In a statement, she claimed her actions were meant to highlight the risks she associates with the burqa and called for a national ban.
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Key insights
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Political Stunt: Hanson's burqa display was a controversial political statement.
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Racism Accusations: Her actions were condemned as racist by several senators.
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Historical Context: Hanson has a long history of opposing Islamic clothing.
Takeaways
Senator Hanson's provocative act has reignited debates on immigration and cultural identity in Australia, highlighting the tensions surrounding political expression and racism.