Saluting Michael Holding, Racism Continues in World Cricket

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One Caribbean Nation.



Michael Holding

By The Mahogany Coconut Group

West Indies cricket legend Michael Holding seems disappointed  that the Australia and England cricket teams, are not responding to the Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests , with the vigor expressed by the West Indies and England test players, during the West Indies recent tour of England. Holding should remember that the West Indies did England and world cricket a huge favor by agreeing to play in what is now called the “bubble” because of COVID-19. Since that tour is now over England might very well be saying to the West Indies: Out of sight and out of mind.

We know that West Indies players , have experienced racism when playing in England and Australia and we have historically combatted and defeated such atrocities by defeating them on the field ; we emerged as the greatest test team in the world and held that position for several years. Although we can no longer claim such a title, West Indies cricket teams have revolutionized the sport.

While we may suggest that racial slurring and other blatant racists actions directed at the West indies by other test playing teams  have subsided over the years; it remains an undeniable historical fact.  Indeed there are those within the Caribbean region , who have not familiarized themselves  with the civil rights struggles of our Afro American brothers and sisters, and may very well question or be confused by the progressive response of our West Indies players , who have made it very clear, that they are in total solidarity with the BLM.

Those of us in the region who seem quite unaware of the struggles for equality of the races within America must be reminded that such struggles have their roots in slavery and the colonial experience that we have sought to overcome  in our societies. Therefore, the historical connection cannot be denied. We must also be reminded , that those in the Diaspora, who now settle in America , are reaping the benefits of the struggle that our Afro American brothers and sisters  confront on a daily basis and have paid for with their blood , sweat, tears and lives.

The Mahogany Coconut Group cannot even pretend that we are surprised by the lukewarm or dismissive attitude, toward BLM by other cricketing nations. After all, some of them remain the proponents of racism both on and off the field. While the West Indies cricket teams have blunted such behavior within the boundaries of the field; they must now seek to do so “beyond the boundary”.

Be of good cheer Mr. holding and continue to play your excellent part. You are a true champion both on and off the field. We salute you and your efforts.

The struggle continues.



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