Act of Humanity award to Mustafe Muuse
The Finnish Red Cross presents the Act of Humanity award to the long-distance runner Mustafe Muuse. Muuse has spoken up about the racism he has faced and is a strong voice for humanity.
Long-distance runner Mustafe Muuse has been actively promoting non-discrimination both in the world of sports and outside it. He has encouraged children and young people from different backgrounds to believe in themselves and their dreams. As a child of immigrant parents, Muuse has also openly spoken about the racism he has faced and encourages people to maintain dialogue with others.
“We would need more humanity and understanding. Public discussions often make me feel bad for others. I wish that we could all move towards thinking that we are all humans. During our moments of weakness, which we will all face in our lives, we can speak with and help each other,” Muuse states.
He has been especially vocal about intervening in the culture of silence that is prevalent in Finland. Reaching for one’s dreams requires individual encouragement, but also support that ensures that no one is left alone. It’s important for everyone to intervene in racist incidents they encounter in their day-to-day life.
“Staying silent is seen as neutral, but it never is. Outsiders have the authority and the responsibility to intervene. By ignoring the situation, you give your tacit approval to the injustice. Sometimes the most important part is to listen what feelings the situation has brought up and let the person know that there is nothing wrong with them."
Recently, Muuse’s speech at the Finnish Sports Gala also brought up discussion about the importance of athletes as participants in social discussions. Muuse has stood as an example for other athletes on how to combine goal-oriented elite sports with speaking for one’s values.
“With his example and his words, Muuse is building a world where people compete on who will be able to help first. This is the world that we need right now, and a world that the Red Cross also wants to promote. Muuse’s example shows that the words and actions of individual people do make a difference,” says the president of the Finnish Red Cross, Elli Aaltonen.
The Act of Humanity award will be given on 8 May, on the World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day. The Finnish Red Cross presents the Act of Humanity award each year to a person or community for special achievement in promoting human themes, values and activities in Finland. The award was first presented in 1988.
