London: Michael Holding, the West Indian cricket's legend and now a successful commentator as well has been a big anti-racist voice in sports. He has also written a new book named, 'Why We Kneel, How We Rise'. In this book he has written from the experiences of Usain Bolt, Michael Johnson, Naomi Osaka, Thierry Henry and other Black sports personalities. This book is set to release on 24th June 2021.
In a recent interview with Telegraph, Holding has opened up about his experience of facing racism in the United Kingdom. Further, he also stated that his long television career as a sports presenter would not have lasted long had he taken a stand. Holding said, "No, I wouldn't have made it" when asked about Ebony Rainford- Brent's story of growing up in the UK.
“Growing up in Jamaica, I didn’t experience racism. I experienced it every time I left Jamaica. Each time I experienced it I just told myself ‘this is not your life’, I will soon be going back home," Holding said.
“And if I had made a stand my career would not have lasted as long as it did, I would not have had a long television career. We have seen through history that black people who stand up for their rights and call out injustice are victimised.
“Mercy, if I had spoken out they would have said? another angry young black man get rid of him.’ I would have been another person on the dung heap.” He added.
Michael Holding is currently based in the UK.
(With inputs from PTI)