By: Abner Wanggai )*
The case of the death of blacks in America, George Floyd reignited the issue of racism in America and also in Indonesia. The community also rejected the #PapuanLivesMatter action which was a provocation from separatist groups to divide the unity of the nation, bearing in mind that the state protected the whole of Indonesia’s blood spills, including Papuans.
George Floyd is a black American citizen and gets sadistic treatment from unscrupulous officers. He was chased with money laundering and did not fight at all. But instead of being put in a patrol car, his neck was stepped on his knee for 7 minutes. Floyd had difficulty breathing and eventually died.
This case instantly captured the attention of the public, not only in America but also throughout the world. They condemned the cruelty of the officer who was still racist and assumed that all black people were the same. Yet in America there has long been equality of rights between whites and blacks, championed by Marthen Luther King.
The issue of racism is rolling back in America and black people are protesting to demand justice for George Floyd. The action, called the ‘Black Lives Matter’, was held in Minneapolis. In this demo it was not only supported by ordinary citizens, but also celebrities such as Lady Gaga and tennis player Serena Williams, even former American president Barack Obama.
A wave of anti-racism also reached Indonesia. Initially, many expressed sympathy for the poor star of George Floyd. However, it turned out to be deviated and instead turned to another issue, namely the accusation of racism against the Papuan people. This action is called ‘Papua Lives Matter’ and is being horrendous in cyberspace.
Physically, Papuans are almost similar to American Negroes, with a sturdy body and dark skin. But the Floyd case should not even be brought to this country and be twisted and then directed to the issue of racism in Papua, because it is very different. Because the treatment of Indonesian citizens from other ethnic groups to indigenous Papuans is actually fine.
If there is a demonstration on behalf of the ‘Papua Lives Matter’, then it is questionable. Are Papuans underestimated so that they must take action? The reality is not. The proof is Septinus Saa who won the world physics olympiad. His success in the international arena is due to his intelligence and tenacity, and when he achieves achievements, he is considered to make Indonesia happy and is not insulted because he comes from Papua. There are also many native Papuan athletes such as Lisa Rumbewas and Alex Pulalo. Again people praise their success and do not mind the color of their skin. There is also Freddy Numberi, a son of Papua who was once the Minister of the Republic of Indonesia in the era of President Megawati and an ambassador.
It is feared that the ‘Papua Lives Matter’ action will actually fuel the issue of racism in Indonesia. Whereas before, everything was fine. When there is this demonstration, it is feared there will be riots and destroy peace in this country. It is feared that Papua lives matter will provoke native Papuans and provoke riots. Even though there are no cases of racism, slavery or inequality at all. So it is hoped that all Indonesian citizens oppose the Papua Lives Matter action.
Sympathy for the George Floyd case is fine. Indeed, we should not view others only from the color of their skin. But the Black Lives Matter action should not be changed to Papua Lives Matter. Because it actually destroys national unity and ignites tribal animosity. Remember to keep doing unity in diversity and maintain the spirit of unity in Indonesia.
)* The writer is a Papuan student living in Yogyakarta