Anthony Mundine: Muslims deserve our PM’s respect

Where were you today, Scott Morrison? On a day where New Zealand — and the world — mourns the dead, your lack of respect has floored me, writes Anthony Mundine. You need to learn from Jacinda Ardern.

I wish Jacinda Ardern was Australia’s Prime Minister.

The amount of respect, honour, compassion and empathy she has shown to the Muslim people has touched my heart.

If Scott Morrison, or any other Australian politician, had any respect they would have flown to New Zealand and acted like the big brother we’re supposed to be to our neighbours.

I decided to fly to Christchurch this week because I feel it is my obligation as a Muslim to support those who are facing catastrophe and adversity. That is our duty.

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I have met many survivors of the terrorist attack in Christchurch and I am amazed by their strength and resilience. And since my arrival, I have been in awe of New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s leadership. She has shown what true leadership is. She has honoured Muslims in so many ways.

Anthony Mundine flew to New Zealand to attend Friday prayers in Christchurch, one week on from the terror attack that claimed 50 lives. Picture: AP/Mark Baker

Today, the entire country had two minutes of silence during Friday prayers. The women of New Zealand have been encouraged to wear hijabs to show solidarity.

I believe Ms Ardern has got every other leader in check. And by doing so, she has embarrassed many of her fellow politicians around the world. She has stepped up to the plate and led her country through her heart, not through politics. And that is what a leader is supposed to do — be a leader, not a follower.

She changed her country’s gun laws in six days. She doesn’t just talk — she takes action decisively. That is lacking in our politics in Australia.

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We have too many people in office who say the right things, but go missing when it’s time to walk the talk.

While I came here to support my fellow Muslims at this tragic time, one thing that has really struck a chord with me in New Zealand is not only how well they treat the Islamic community, but also their Indigenous people.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern doesn’t just talk; she takes action decisively. Picture: AP/Vincent Thian

They are teaching the Maori culture and language in schools and celebrating them as people. In Australia, the Aboriginal culture is not taught in any schools.

New Zealand is so much further ahead than us in the treatment of Indigenous people. We need a treaty in Australia to recognise Aboriginal people and our rights.

When I return to Australia, I am really going to look at how I can be involved in bringing about some positive change and make a difference to future of my people.

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People might be surprised, but I agree with the One Nation proposal to have DNA testing of Aboriginal people because too many have been taking advantage for too long. We have Aboriginal money that is being claimed and used by people who do not live black.

So I am taking notes on how the Prime Minister of New Zealand acts with empathy and respect, and I will take this back with me.

She doesn’t talk about it, she is about it. And she has inspired me to collaborate with others.

Jacinda Ardern acts for the good of humanity, and I want to do the same.

Anthony Mundine is an Australian former professional boxer and rugby league footballer who now works with Indigenous and Muslim communities. @Anthony_Mundine

Originally published as Anthony Mundine: Muslims deserve our PM’s respect