Awer Mabil, a member of the Socceroos, firmly rejected the notion that Australia lacks multiculturalism, labeling the idea 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,” His comments came in response to Pauline Hanson’s claim that the national soccer team embodies her vision of a monocultural Australia.
After returning to Australia on Monday following the Socceroos’ 4-2 penalty shootout loss to Egypt in the World Cup round of 32, Mabil addressed reporters regarding the debate surrounding Australia’s multicultural identity.
“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.” Mabil stated emphatically when asked about the allegations of Australia not being a multicultural society. He emphasized that the Socceroos remain undistracted by being used as a political tool.
Representation and Unity
Mabil articulated the team’s position, asserting, “The Socceroos aren’t just a team, we are a reflection of modern Australia,”
He continued, “The Socceroos, in fact, represent my vision of a… monocultural Australia,”
The winger, who immigrated to Australia from a Kenyan refugee camp as a child, later became an Australian citizen. In 2023, he was recognized as the Young Australian of the Year for his charitable contributions aimed at improving health and educational opportunities for refugee communities.
Embracing Diversity
Earlier in the tournament, the Socceroos released a video celebrating their diverse backgrounds and migrant heritage. 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,”
This statement followed Hanson’s address at the National Press Club in June, where she claimed that multiculturalism had failed in Australia. Despite her views, she acknowledged that the Socceroos exemplified unity among individuals from various backgrounds.
“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 stated, highlighting her perspective on the team’s composition.
The Value of Multiculturalism
Mabil further emphasized the positivity of multiculturalism within the Socceroos. “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 noted.
He added, “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.”
