During the Women’s Soccer World Cup in Australia and New Zealand (July 20-August 20), flags representing the indigenous and Maori peoples will be flown, organizers said on Friday.
“FIFA’s confirmation that all Australian flags will fly during the World Cup is an important moment for all Australians, particularly First Nations,” Australian FA president James Johnson responded.
“This…
During the Women’s Soccer World Cup in Australia and New Zealand (July 20-August 20), flags representing the indigenous and Maori peoples will be flown, organizers said on Friday.
“FIFA’s confirmation that all Australian flags will fly during the World Cup is an important moment for all Australians, particularly First Nations,” Australian FA president James Johnson responded.
“This decision is framed in the values of diversity and inclusion that characterize our company, and is consistent with our vision for competition,” he added.
Andrew Bracknell of the New Zealand Federation praised the move, saying it would set a precedent for future editions in “recognizing the rights of indigenous peoples around the world”.
“These flags express mutual respect, national identity and the desire to recognize indigenous cultures to our hosts,” FIFA president Gianni Infantino said in a statement.
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In Australia, the Aboriginal flag will be flown alongside the national flag at 35 matches in the maritime nation.
The same goes for the Maori flag in New Zealand’s 29 scheduled matches.
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