As a child refugee from Somaliland, I know Sir Mo’s agony all too well
StandardJul 12, 2022
On Thurs., London's Metropolitan Police announced that it has begun an investigation into Mo Farah's recent revelations about his experience with human trafficking.
Despite admitting to his status as an illegal immigrant, Farah was assured by the British government this week that he won't be stripped of his citizenship, with a spokesman for PM Boris Johnson describing him as "a sporting hero."
Farah's story is an important reminder that there are many enslaved and trafficked people around the world that need help. He's courageous to come clean publicly, and he should be lauded for what he's accomplished under the circumstances.
While Farah's experiences certainly bring attention to the human trafficking crisis, they also reveal how successful professional athletes often receive special government treatment that other illegal immigrants don't. As is usually the case, if you bring money and talent to a country's fanbase, they'll be more likely to look the other way.