Children's Web Magazine

Five years ago the Zimbabwe cricketers Andy Flower and Henry Olonga stood up against the Zimbabwe government. During the cricket world cup they walked onto the field wearing black armbands. Their reason for doing this was they said because "We are mourning the death of democracy in our beloved Zimbabwe".
They read a statement which began with the fact that it was an honour for them to play for their country. They went on to say "We believe that if we remain silent that will be taken as a sign that either we do not care or we condone what is happening in Zimbabwe. We believe that it is important to stand up for what is right".
Both knew what the consequences of their actions would have on them playing cricket for their country. They also knew they would not be able to return to Zimbabwe. Their brave stance for human rights also put them in a dangerous position.
It would hopefully also inspire others to stand up for Zimbabwe's rights. After all Henry Olonga was the first black Zimbabwe player.
Givemore Makoni chairman of Takashinga the cricket club Olonga played for criticized him for his stand. He was disappointed as Olonga was a hero and role model to black cricketing neighbourhoods. However Henry Olonga is a hero and role model because of his moral courage. His Christian principles caused him to speak out against evil. He could not under those circumstances do nothing. He felt that situation of injustice in Zimbabwe was to important an issue for him not too speak out against it - even at the expense of his livelihood in his home country.
Andy Flower was the player who came up with the idea of a protest. But they acted alone as they didn't want to influence the junior players in the squad. Younger players tend to look up to the more senior players. So it is understandable why they decided not to involve them in their decision.
Henry Olonga and Andy Flower were awarded the Anne Frank award for moral courage in 2003.
Andy Flower is also considered to be the 36th greatest cricketer out of 50 by the former Australian cricketer Shane Warne.
2008 is the 60th anniversary of the declaration of human rights. It would be wonderful if this year Zimbabwe became a democracy once again.
© Children's Web Magazine 2008