League’s Black Lives Matter stance welcomed by Matongo
Hull FC’s Zimbabwe-born prop feels it is important that people understand why the BLM movement is trying to create an ‘equal platform’. Dave Craven reports.
WHEN HULL FC’S Masi Matongo says he is “lucky” to have not been affected by racism as much as some others, it merely underlines the whole issue.
Why should the England Knights prop – who was born in Zimbabwe and moved to the UK aged five – need to feel fortunate to be in such a position?
Moving to the point where it is normal not to suffer any such bigotry is what should be hoped for; it is one of the reasons he has welcomed rugby league’s unified stance on Black Lives Matter.
Earlier this week, the Rugby Football League, Super League, Championship and League 1 released a joint-statement saying it “stands in solidarity with players, coaches, fans, volunteers, staff and supporters in the struggle against racism and discrimination” while challenging itself to do more.
Pledging to take the opportunity to connect with everyone in its communities and welcome new audiences by “listening, learning, and acting”, a series of workshops have been put in place, including one this evening, facilitated by Alex Simmons and Dean Thomas.
Matongo, 24, told The Yorkshire Post: “It’s always good to get the message out. And that in society’.
Hull FC prop says racism is a ‘deep-rooted problem
is all it’s about really – making people aware of what still goes on. There’s a lot of people who take so much offence to it (BLM) but no one is blaming your average person, born into a certain way of life, for how things are.
“Yet at the same time, as it’s such a deep-rooted problem in society, it’s become the norm’ to be okay with it. That’s the issue.
“It’s just a case of saying ‘look guys, we know this isn’t right and it’s not your fault but we’d like your help to try fix it and tell the powers-that-be this isn’t okay.’
“I’ve been fortunate to grow up with a lot of great white people; my best friends who I trust my life with are white.
“So it’s crazy to see how much hatred there still is. I’ve had racist experiences. Luckily, I’m strong enough to ride a lot of it but others aren’t and, for them, it might be enough to scare them not to go into the streets even for a pint of milk. No one wants to live in a life of fear.”
The RFL has said it will also do more to try and increase the number of black and ethnic minority people within the game.
As much as he appreciates that, Matongo understands some of the reasons why and maintains it should always be the best person for the job.
Simple education, regardless of who is involved and at what level, remains pivotal in his eyes.
“Without education, we’re clueless,” said Matongo, who moved to Hull at the age of nine and did not start playing until 15.
“We’re the blind leading the blind and everyone is arguing for no reason.
“All the people that say ‘All Lives Matter,’ – Yes, that’s 100 percent true. But at this moment in time, it’s the black and ethnic minorities who are suffering.
“It’s like someone has broken a leg and someone has stubbed a toe; they are both important but who does a doctor help first?
“The person with a broken leg as that’s most severe. It doesn’t take away from the other person who might need help. It’s not a competition. It’s trying to build an equal platform for everyone.”