Adam Bandt (Melbourne, Australian Greens) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I would like to read to you this poem, written by a man detained on Manus Island. On the day that we have learned of the tragic death of Fazal Chegeni, I ask the House to reflect on these words. The poem's name is Freedom:

I'll find you in each place you are living

Even if you are above the clouds or in the sky

I'm always thinking about you

There is something I need to ask:

Can I fly and be with you?

I'll give you my youth and will let you take my life, if you show me how I can reach you.

I ran until my shoes wore out.

I made a boat and sailed the sea to find you.

I left my home

And used my bare hands to build a boat.

I heard that if I see you

There is no longer politics

I heard if I find you there will be no innocent bird in a cage

Yet a storm has forced me into a dark land.

I will continue to search for you

I heard you exist

For now, they say that I am free

Just without freedom.