Awer Mabil, a member of the Australian national soccer team, has firmly dismissed the notion that Australia lacks multiculturalism, labeling it as “We know what we represent. We represent Australia at the biggest stage, and Australia… is the best country in the world, and the Socceroos is the best representation of that,”. This response comes in light of Pauline Hanson’s comments suggesting that the national squad exemplifies her vision of a monocultural Australia.
After returning to Australia on Monday from the Socceroos’ World Cup match, where they were eliminated by Egypt in a penalty shootout, Mabil addressed reporters regarding the claims about the nation’s cultural makeup.
“If anybody’s trying to divide that, then they’re probably not Australian themselves, in a sense, respectfully. Because Australia is very inclusive, includes everybody. That’s what the Socceroos is.” he said, emphasizing that despite being thrust into the political spotlight, the team remains unfazed.
Soccer Team Represents Diversity
Mabil expressed pride in what the Socceroos symbolize, stating, “The Socceroos aren’t just a team, we are a reflection of modern Australia,”
He further elaborated, “The Socceroos, in fact, represent my vision of a… monocultural Australia,”
Mabil’s Background and Recognition
Born to South Sudanese parents in a Kenyan refugee camp, Mabil migrated to Australia as a child and later became an Australian citizen. His contributions to society were recognized when he was named Young Australian of the Year in 2023 for his charitable efforts to enhance health and education opportunities for refugee communities.
Earlier in the tournament, the Socceroos shared a video highlighting their diverse heritage and immigrant backgrounds. Veteran midfielder Jackson Irvine remarked, “You don’t pick where you’re born, you don’t pick the colour of your skin, you pick to be a good human being. That’s a choice,”
Response to Hanson’s Claims
Following her address at the National Press Club in June, where Hanson asserted that multiculturalism had failed in Australia, she stated that the Socceroos exemplify her vision of a monocultural nation. “Some people, they choose to go against being good, then that’s their own problem. Then they’re missing out on what others can bring, and that’s what multicultural does. It brings other flavours to the table instead of just one thing.” Senator Hanson remarked.
Mabil noted the positive perception of multiculturalism within the Socceroos camp, stating, “You don’t pick where you’re born, you don’t pick the colour of your skin, you pick to be a good human being. That’s a choice.”
He concluded by saying, “Some people, they choose to go against being good, then that’s their own problem. Then they’re missing out on what others can bring, and that’s what multicultural does. It brings other flavours to the table instead of just one thing.”
