ICC prohibited Khawaja from wearing shows that have ‘All Lives are Equal’ written on them

Are all lives not equal?: Khawaja

Khawaja would abide by the decision despite his discontentment

The International Cricket Council (ICC) prohibited Australian opener Usman Khawaja from wearing shows that have ‘All Lives are Equal’ written on them as it was deemed as a message relating to politics during Australia’s upcoming test match against Pakistan.

Usman has however responded to these allegations by stating that his message was not political but rather humanitarian. “Is freedom not for everyone? Are all lives not equal? To me personally it doesn’t matter what race, religion or culture you are. I’m just speaking up for those who don’t have a voice. I am not taking sides. Human life to me is equal. One Jewish life is equal to one Muslim is equal to one Hindu life and so on. This is close to my heart. When I see thousands of innocent children die without any repercussions or remorse I imagine my two girls. If me saying ‘all lives matter’ has resulted in people being offended to the point that they are calling me up and telling me off, isn’t that the bigger problem?” he stated through a video that he posted on the microblogging platform X (formerly known as Twitter). 

All Lives are Equal. Freedom is a Human right. I'm raising my voice for human rights. For a humanitarian appeal. If you see it any other way. That's on you… pic.twitter.com/8eaPnBfUEb

— Usman Khawaja (@Uz_Khawaja) December 13, 2023

He decided to abide by the decision despite his discontentment. “The ICC have told me that I can’t wear my shoes on the field. I will respect their view and decision but I will fight it and seek to gain approval,” he added.