As calls for an end to Israel’s aggression in Gaza and the West Bank grow, celebrities and influencers are increasingly using their platforms to raise awareness about the issue. Recently, Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja wore a black armband in solidarity with Palestine during the Perth Test match on Thursday.

The move came after the ICC and Cricket Australia protested against the opener’s decision to wear shoes bearing the slogans ‘Freedom is a human right’ and ‘All life is equal’. Expressing his plans to challenge the ICC decision, the cricketer reiterated his belief in the sanctity of all human life in a video message on X (formerly Twitter).

“Everyone’s life is equal. Freedom is a human right. I am raising my voice for human rights. For humanitarian appeal. If you look at it another way. It’s up to you…” Usman wrote in the caption of the post. Pro-Palestinian cricket fans flocked to the post praising the cricketer for taking a stand.

Fans underlined Usman’s status as part of the Australian team and the importance of his statement. “After spending your entire life with non-Muslims you need some guts and courage to speak on this matter. What an incredible boy! Lots of respect for Usman Khawaja,” wrote one user.

Another praised Usman, saying, “Love this man. The statement ‘All life is equal’ will only cause objection to those who do not believe it to be true. Top man, Usman.” One post claimed that cricket fans should show solidarity towards the Australian cricketer for taking a humanitarian stand.

“Australian cricket is lucky to have this guy. It says a lot about us as a fanbase that we celebrate a player drinking 52 beers on a trip to London, while bashing a player who promotes humanitarian discourse,” the X user wrote. Many criticized the growing social divide that links the conflict over simple concerns about the safety of life.

One post read, “It is evidence of the gross inequality in the world we live in that their simple slogan is considered political and controversial,” while another criticized cricket officials for justifying supporting Gaza. Criticized. “It is completely insane that a professional athlete has to explain why he thinks all life is worth preserving (the mildest, least offensive public statement one could possibly make in 2023). ICC, Cricket Australia should be ashamed,” read the post.

One user called on other cricketers to express solidarity with Palestine, saying, “Really proud of him for speaking out like this. Everyone’s life is equal, this should never be a controversial statement. More cricketers should stand here to support him. Another netizen commented, “Usman Khawaja keeps finding ways to make me respect him and love him more.”

Alluding to similar outrage displayed by Black Lives Matter critics, the user added, “Perfectly said when you can tell he’s hiding a lot. Guaranteed, the people who were hurt by his shoes were the same people who were shouting ‘All Lives Matter’ a few years ago.”

Do you have anything to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.