Internationally acclaimed Aboriginal boxer Anthony Mundine has torched a portrait of prime minister John Howard and set fire to Union Jack flag in a controversial video for his first outing as a rapper.
The politically-charged song is called Platinum Ryder, and Mundine filmed the video in the Aboriginal area of Redfern, in inner Sydney, known as The Block.
Other indigenous locals are also seen shredding a photo of Howard in the clip.
From the Daily Telegraph :
The burning takes place against the background of Mundine's rags-to-riches rap lyrics: "I am just one man, it ain't the whole of the nation, politicians won't say sorry for the stolen generation.''
The former WBA world champion and rugby league star said yesterday the act symbolised justice. "This ain't being racist ... it's the politicians that are keeping us oppressed, not the public,'' he said.
"It signifies politicians and the Government and its foundations. What they have done to my people in the past and what they are still doing today.
' The Union Jack, that's the Government, that's what it was built on and it's a symbol of oppression. It's a fight for justice, we have to stand up and be counted.''
Mundine, 31, said he felt Mr Howard was "a puppet to the bigger brothers, who are England and America'' and that Australia should have a new flag. "
