Mundine’s call for boycott is shouted down

BOXER Anthony Mundine’s call for an indigenous rights protest at this weekend’s two grand finals has been shouted down by scores of prominent Australians, from the Prime Minister down.

The outspoken boxing champion yesterday called on players from both the AFL and NRL to boycott the anthem this weekend.

“I just want to educate the people, the Australian anthem was written at a time where Aboriginal people weren’t even considered human beings,” Mundine said.

Swans star Buddy Franklin (right), who is of indigenous descent, rejected Mundine’s call and said there was “no chance” he would do it.

“Personally I think it’s pretty stupid really. It’s the Australian national anthem, it’s a part of our sport, our history,” Franklin said.

Mundine’s plan was inspired by San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who kneels during the playing of the American national anthem before NFL games to protest against racism and police brutality in the US.

The 41-year-old professional boxer and former rugby league player said he was not trying to incite violence or division, but wanted to educate the Australian public about indigenous recognition.

He said he decided not to contact any NRL or AFL grand final players with his anthem plan, because he didn’t want to pressure anyone.

“If they want to do it, it’s in their heart,” Mundine said.

Mundine said he was considering a move into politics as an independent after his boxing career was over.

Earlier yesterday Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull dismissed Mundine’s protest call as”divisive”.

“I think everyone should sing and everyone should just be proud about their country, our country, and the fact that we can come together in sport,” the prime minister said in a radio interview.