Junior Rioli becomes latest Indigenous AFL player to be targetted by racists online

Jarred Cross
Jarred Cross Published May 8, 2023 at 4.45pm (AWST)

The scourge of racist abuse directed towards Indigenous AFL players shows no sign of abating in 2023 - Port Adelaide's Junior Rioli the latest star to be subjected to the attacks.

On Monday Port released a statement condemning a racist post directed at Rioli over the weekend.

"Racism does not belong in our society, and nor in our national game," Port's statement read.

"Racist comments like these cause deep distress and harm.

"We will continue to call this reprehensible behaviour out and use our voice to educate our fans and the broader community.

"The club is supporting Junior, his family, and all First Nations people within the club who have been distressed by these racist comments."

It is just the latest instance where a club, or the league, has had cause to issue statements condemning racist attacks.

It comes after a string of incidents where players have been forced to endure vile remarks.

Last month, the footy community rallied around Nicky Winmar 30 years on from his brave and iconic stance against racism during a match at Melbourne's Victoria Park.

The night of reflection and pride came amid a surge of vilification in the game.

Nine fans have already received life bans from attending AFL matches for racist conduct in the stands following the adoption of a strict process by the league.

The anonymity afforded to social media users behind the attacks remains a challenge in eradicating the issue.

AFL general manager of inclusion and social policy Tanya Hosch has stated the league is working with the eSafety developing a process towards a safer online environment for players.

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National Indigenous Times

Disclaimer: This function is AI-generated and therefore may mispronounce.