El
Masri and Price: One Voice
Hazem El Masri and Steve Price tell their personal stories
The likelihood of a young Muslim boy growing up in Tripoli, Lebanon crossing paths with a kid running around the footy fields of Toowoomba in country Queensland is fairly remote.
In the case of Bulldogs star Hazem El Masri and Warriors captain Steve Price, not only did this occur but they have developed a life-long friendship through the most unexpected of circumstances.
Parramatta star Dean Widders approached both players independently to participate
in the 'Voices of Australia' project celebrating the 30th anniversary
of the Racial Discrimination Act.
In telling their individual stories it was almost as if they were speaking as one on issues of respect and tolerance, and the immense value they placed on the special friendship they have developed over the years.
"Hazem is one of my best mates," Price said. "He opened up my eyes to many things, from appreciating the traditional Lebanese food prepared by his wife to being able to accept and admire his commitment to the Muslim faith."
Price's openness to the multicultural experiences provided throughout his time at the Bulldogs can be traced to his upbringing in country Toowoomba.
"Growing up my Mum taught me to respect everybody the same way," he said. "Whether they were tall or short, rich or poor, as long as they treated you in a similar manner, they deserved your respect."
Price recalled
one of his best mates as a youngster was Greg Suey, an Aboriginal from a
large extended family, who was also a talented footballer.
"We used to do everything together," he said. "His family gave me an appreciation of Aboriginal culture and enabled me to realise at a young age that every community and culture is made up of individuals."
Price took these values to the Bulldogs and quickly became a favourite with the army of loyal fans who shared his passion for the blue and white jersey.
"A small number of fans have given the majority an undeserved reputation," Price said. "As well as the traditional supporters, the multicultural mix of Greeks, Italians, Lebanese and other nationalities all share the same passion."
It is a passion that continues to see El Masri as one of the crowd's favourites.
"The major thing about Hazem is that he lets actions speak louder than words," Price said. "When we first met he accepted me on face value and gave me absolute respect.
"He has not changed since day one."
"In the environment the world is in it could have been difficult but with Hazem our wires have never crossed."
"I accept and admire his dedication to his faith and the immense discipline he shows at all times," Price continued.
"Ramadan falls during off-season training and Hazem's vigilance in terms of his fasting and prayer is an example to us all.
"His abstinence from alcohol even extends to him not passing on gifts he might receive in case it appears he endorses its consumption."
In El Masri, Price knows he has a friend for life – a view that is shared by his former team-mate.
"It was most disappointing when Pricey left," Hazem said. "As captain of the Bulldogs he led us through some difficult times and has been through a lot.
"He is a true leader – a good communicator who is both loyal and trustworthy.
"He is a family man, truly a gentleman and an awesome friend," he continued. "I always value his thoughts and opinions."
When El Masri was growing up his parents and his family's religious beliefs moulded the person whom the fans adore as 'El Magic'
"My parents taught me to be well-mannered and to respect other people and that I had to earn the respect of others.
"It is important that you develop a work ethic that people can relate to and respect and then hopefully they will respect your values as well," he said.
Hazem believes that ignorance is cause of most forms of racism and that his best response is to let his actions speak for him.
"You can't blame people when they act out of ignorance," he said. "I try to lead by my actions and example and then slowly people will ask you questions.
"During Ramadan in summer we will train in 30 degree plus heat and I will be fasting as well as continuing my observance of praying five times a day," he continued.
"Slowly people will ask you questions when you can explain your beliefs and reasons," he said. "Slowly, slowly you break down barriers."
El Masri believes it is important to build trust in everything you do.
"If you are honest and trustworthy then people will respect you," he concluded. "My religion doesn't allow me to be racist. We pray that people will unite not divide."
Meanwhile Steve Price has experienced himself what it is to be a 'migrant' in his move to the New Zealand Warriors.
"One of the reasons I accepted the offer was to allow myself and my family the opportunity to experience and enjoy another culture," he said.
"One experience in particular blew me away," Price detailed. "One of our first training sessions was at an Army Camp where we were welcomed by the local elders and community at the local Marae (meeting place)."
"The process blew me away," he continued. "The traditional dance and touching of noses was something special."
"Initially I felt a bit embarrassed but once I understood the respect I was being given I felt very much a part of it.
"If all cultures were as proud and welcoming as the Maori culture it would be a fantastic world."
Price concluded that he was proud, lucky and privileged to have experienced so many diverse cultures through his involvement in rugby league.
And then, of course, there is the unexpected friendship with his mate Hazem.
Last updated: 24 August 2005.
© Human Rights and
Equal Opportunity Commission.
Comments and Feedback welcome - Email: voices@humanrights.gov.au.
