Awer Mabil, a member of the Socceroos, has vehemently dismissed claims that Australia lacks multiculturalism, calling such notions “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 reaction comes in light of Pauline Hanson’s assertion that the national soccer team symbolizes her vision of a monocultural Australia.
Mabil returned to Australia on Monday after the Socceroos’ 4-2 penalty loss to Egypt in the World Cup knockout stage. When questioned by reporters regarding the idea that Australia is not a multicultural nation, he responded affirmatively: “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.”
The Socceroos, despite being entangled in political discourse, have remained focused on their mission, Mabil emphasized. “The Socceroos aren’t just a team, we are a reflection of modern Australia,” he stated at Adelaide airport.
Mabil’s Background and Contributions
Having been born in a Kenyan refugee camp to South Sudanese parents, Mabil moved to Australia as a child and later became a citizen. His contributions to society are notable; he was named Young Australian of the Year in 2023 for his charitable work aimed at enhancing health and education opportunities for refugee communities.
Earlier in the tournament, the Socceroos shared a video highlighting their diverse backgrounds and migrant heritage. Veteran midfielder Jackson Irvine remarked, “The Socceroos, in fact, represent my vision of a… monocultural Australia,”
Hanson’s Comments and Mabil’s Response
In June, during a speech at the National Press Club, One Nation leader Pauline Hanson claimed that multiculturalism has failed in Australia. She suggested that the Socceroos exemplify her vision of a unified nation under a single flag, 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,”
Mabil countered this perspective, asserting that multiculturalism is valued within the Socceroos’ ranks. He stated, “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.”
He further noted that those who choose divisiveness are missing out on the benefits that diversity brings, emphasizing that multiculturalism adds various
