Ed Husic attacked on Facebook over Koran

LABOR MP Ed Husic says he is not going to "jump because of harsh words in dark corners" after a spate of racial abuse was levelled at him online.

Mr Husic, who was yesterday sworn in as Australia's first Muslim frontbencher, today brushed off the racial abuse saying it was a "natural part of democracy" that people would not always agree.

"There are people that are definitely extreme inside my faith and outside it and they will always seek ways to try and divide people," Mr Husic said.

"But it is important to not jump because of harsh words in dark corners."

Mr Husic said he was asked by Kevin Rudd on Sunday night if he would serve in his ministry as a Parliamentary Secretary.

He said he spoke to his dad, a Bosnian migrant, straight after and was so pleased that he was able to give back to the Australian community in public life.

"It's incredible in one generation to be in a position to contribute in this way to public life," Mr Husic said.

"I think children of migrant parents always want to pay back and give back to Australia."

Mr Husic said it was a "straight forward decision" to decide to be sworn in on the Koran.

"Obviously I couldn't take my oath on a Bible - I am who I am," he said.

Mr Husic has copped a spate of online abuse over his decision to be sworn in on the Koran at a ceremony at Canberra's Government House.

Mr Husic, 43, was the first Muslim to be sworn into an Australian ministry and was appointed the roles of Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister and Parliamentary Secretary for Broadband.

His wife and young son were present at the ceremony.

The Blacktown MP describes himself as a "non-practicing" Muslim.

Mr Husic was a key backer of Kevin Rudd and was widely tipped to be in line for a promotion.

At yesterday's swearing in Governor-General Quentin Bryce made a point of recognising the significance of Mr Husic's appointment.

"This is a great day for multiculturalism in Australia," Ms Bryce told the MP after he had been formally sworn in. To which all those present cried: "hear, hear".

Credits: news.com.au

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