Muslim leader lauds AFLW player’s ‘brave’ pride jumper stance, as questions about double standards emerge
A Muslim leader in Victoria says AFLW player Haneen Zreika has shown incredible “bravery” by opting out of Greater Western Sydney’s match this weekend because the Giants are wearing their “pride” jumper.
Adel Salman is president of the Islamic Council of Victoria and told Neil Mitchell the decision wouldn’t have been easy for the 22-year-old to make.
“There will be backlash,” he said.
“The club have accepted it, the AFL may accept it, but in the broader community there may be backlash.
“I just hope she is shown respect and her position is respected.”
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Neil Mitchell agreed Zreika should be shown respect, but questioned whether there was a double standard in how media and public figures had responded in similar circumstances previously.
“Israel Folau was vilified and lost sponsors,” he said.
“Margaret Court gave her religious based views and was a national target – they wanted to rename Margaret Court Arena.
“Our own Premier tweeted ‘ I don’t want to give this person’s disgraceful, bigoted views any oxygen’ – he hasn’t tweeted anything about Haneen and this decision?
“Partly, I think it’s because Christians are an easy target.
“People are sensitive about the inclusivity of the Muslim community and other communities and therefore are less likely to be critical.
“I disagree with all of them – all of them, quite strongly – but I defend their right to have the view and take that action without being pilloried.”
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(Photo by Mark Metcalfe/AFL Photos/Getty Images)