SBW: I’m here to show my respects’
ALL Blacks midfielder Sonny
Bill Williams has continued his mission to Christchurch with a hospital visit to lift the spirits of shooting survivors.
Joined by fellow All Black Ofa Tu’ungafasi and AFL player Bachar Houli, Williams went to Christchurch Hospital yesterday to listen to the survivors’ stories, offer his support and pose for selfies.
Williams’ visit was also a boost for hospital staff, who have worked tirelessly since the shootings to look after the victims in the most difficult circumstances.
Fifty people lost their lives in the attacks, while a further 27 remain in hospital.
Events have cast Williams into a leadership role as New Zealand deals with the terrorist shootings and Williams has embraced the position, reflecting his own development and maturity as a father with three young children.
Williams captained the Blues in their Super Rugby victory over the Sunwolves in Auckland a fortnight ago and has long been recognised within rugby and league circles for the example he sets to younger players, particularly those from Pacific Island backgrounds
He missed the Blues’ narrow win against the Highlanders on Friday after flying to Christchurch to offer his support to the Christchurch community and take part in the moving service at Hagley Park.
Williams said Friday’s prayers were ‘‘an amazing show of unity, show of peace, show of love’’.
Speaking to Sunday News afterwards he said: ‘‘I think that’s what everyone wants. It just makes me proud to be a Kiwi – I’m a proud Muslim, a proud New Zealander, and that’s why I’m here.
‘‘I’m here to show my respects but also to help and move forward. What does that look like? That looks like for me trying to eradicate racism and hatred and silencing those people that promote that.
‘‘Jacinda’s [Ardern] led the way. She’s started the process, now those conversations can really be had.’’