Usman Khawaja, the classic Australian left-handed batsman, became embroiled in controversy when he was reprimanded by the ICC for inscribing “All Human lives are equal” on his shoes during the test match against Pakistan in December 2023. The ICC considered this a political statement and directed him not to wear those specific shoes for the match. Khawaja, understandably perplexed, questioned how a plea for the equality of all lives could be deemed political or carry a vested agenda. In this article, we delve into what prompted Khawaja to take this stance, look at similar instances in other sports, and ponder the appropriateness of sports delving into larger political questions.
If the children being murdered were my daughters, would I be OK?
The catalyst for Khawaja’s bold statement lies in a deeply personal reflection. Troubled by the thought of children’s deaths, he asked himself a poignant question: The death toll which is reaching nearly 10,000, would he be okay if those were his daughters? The sheer magnitude of the unfolding genocide, with over 22,000 lives lost, shook him to his core. Fueled by this realization, Khawaja, as a cricketer, chose to utilize the canvas of sports to highlight the humanitarian plea. Unfortunately, the ICC intervened akin to those who claim to be the champions of Human rights and repeatedly veto resolutions for cease fire. It’s worth noting and appreciating Cricket Australia’s support for Khawaja, affectionately known as Uzzie, as he stood up for his voice of conscience.
Multiculturalism as an Enabler of Holistic Vision
The discussion on multiculturalism gains further depth when considering Usman Khawaja, the first Muslim to play for Australia. Raised by parents of Pakistani origin, his Asian heritage posed challenges in adapting to his home country. What’s noteworthy is that this global cricketing superstar’s empathy towards pressing humanitarian crises underscores the unifying power of sports. Crucially, his distinct upbringing and values enable him to respond uniquely and set an example. This understanding and cohesion emerging from diverse cultures present a model of cooperation, mutual learning, and cohesion. In a world marked by differences and polarization, this stands as a testament to how multiculturalism can enrich societies and pave the way for an enhanced understanding and a holistic vision of humanity. Notable instances in sports, such as the multicultural French football team winning the 2018 World Cup and the diverse composition of the English cricket team in 2019, further reinforce the idea that understanding, empathy, and cohesion are the way forward. Understanding, Empathy, and Cohesion is the way forward.
Sports as a medium of resistance and Solidarity
The recent Russian attack on Ukraine saw a global outpouring of support. In football, La Liga, the Spanish league, prominently displayed the Ukraine flag next to the scorecard, a gesture echoed in the English Premier League. This collective message of solidarity is a positive and necessary development. However, a paradox emerged when similar gestures were made on the “Palestinian issue” by French club Nice’s Youcef Atal and German club Mainz’s Anwar El Ghazi. Instead of support, they faced suspension and criminal action. This glaring inconsistency reveals a troubling hypocrisy. The very question raised by Uzzie – that all humans are equal – is once again challenged in the face of selective responses to humanitarian issues.
Sportsmen as Ambassadors of Society
Sportsmen play a crucial role as ambassadors of society, holding an iconic status that extends beyond the playing field. Figures like Pele, Maradona, Messi, Ronaldo, Sachin, Dhoni, or Virat wield significant influence, being perceived as heroes, role models, and even gurus. In the age of social media, their actions have broader consequences, shaping societal values and perceptions.
Ironically, some sports personalities, who were once icons of anti-drug campaigns, succumbed to drug overdoses, highlighting the need for responsibility in their public roles. Former cricketers endorsing Pan Masala and engaging in betting further underscore the importance of ethical conduct. Instances like Didier Drogba’s (Ivory Coast and Chelsea legend) intervention in stopping a civil war in Ivory Coast showcase the positive impact sports figures can have beyond the realm of sports, addressing societal issues.
Sports act as a powerful catalyst, particularly in regions affected by drugs and arms, such as Brazil, where sports serve as an outlet for those trapped in a life of crime and poverty. While sports have the potential to unite and provide purpose, they can also be misused to divide societies.
A poignant example of the transformative power of sports comes from Mohamed Salah. His presence significantly reduced Islamophobia in the United Kingdom, particularly in Liverpool, where fans adopted a chant, “Mo Salah if you score one more goal, we will be Muslim too”. From hate to love and affection, this underscores the profound impact sports can have on societal perceptions.
In conclusion, Usman Khawaja’s recent gesture has sparked multifaceted conversations. Firstly, it sheds light on the urgent need to halt the ongoing genocide in Palestine. Secondly, it questions whether a universal message like “all lives are equal” should be considered partisan, prompting societal introspection. Thirdly, it challenges the inconsistency in cherishing and celebrating certain lives while neglecting others based on factors like religion or race. Finally, Khawaja’s example may serve as a roadmap for promoting multiculturalism in a plural society. Ultimately, as public ambassadors, sports figures bear a responsibility to reflect ethical behavior both on and off the field, recognizing that with great power comes great responsibility.
