AFL's LGBTQI+ Efforts Lack Pride
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Not Much Pride in the AFL’s LGBTQI+ Efforts
The Australian Football League (AFL) has struggled with LGBTQI+ issues for far too long. While homophobic slurs on the field are an obvious problem, they are a symptom of a deeper issue: the league’s failure to genuinely embed inclusivity into its culture. The focus is no longer on educating the masses but rather on why some players still feel empowered to spew hate.
The 2017 same-sex marriage postal survey result showed that 61.6% of Australians supported equality, and it was a day of celebration for many in the community. However, incidents like Alastair Clarkson’s $20,000 fine for calling players “c---suckers” during pre-season in 2024 are a stark reminder of how much work remains to be done. Jeremy Finlayson’s three-match ban after admitting to using a homophobic slur that same season seems lenient given the AFL’s treatment of similar cases.
The damage from these slurs is real – they contribute to feelings of shame, depression, and anxiety among those who experience them, and can even lead to increased self-harm. Critics argue that the league’s inconsistent approach is more damaging than any single slur. Sponsorships with airlines that outlaw homosexuality, such as Qatar Airways and Emirates, and high-profile incidents like Snoop Dogg performing at last year’s grand final contribute to a perception that the AFL isn’t entirely committed to change.
However, there are glimmers of hope. Pride rounds in sports have been shown to shift player attitudes. A study found that rugby players participating in rainbow games used homophobic slurs significantly less after the events. The AFL only has one such match, traditionally between the Sydney Swans and St Kilda, which is puzzling given its potential impact.
The 2024 season saw a disturbing increase in incidents – Clarkson’s slur wasn’t even the worst offender. This highlights a larger issue: player attitudes are often more influenced by culture than education. Properly organised pride rounds, with support and education for local clubs, have been shown to make a tangible impact on reducing homophobic language in sports.
The AFL still has a long way to go. Research shows that athletes commonly use homophobic language, even when claiming positive attitudes toward LGBTQI+ people. This is compounded by incidents like Will Houghton’s comments as chair of the AFL appeal tribunal in the Lance Collard case – he was sacked after making similar remarks.
The league must take a hard look at itself and its culture. The research highlights that the use of homophobic language plummets when players participate in pride rounds, but so far, the AFL hasn’t committed to more than just one such event per year. It’s time for action – not just empty promises or handballed incidents.
In a league where consistency is key, it seems we’re still waiting on genuine change.
Reader Views
- PLPetra L. · interior stylist
The AFL's Pride round should be more than just a token gesture – it needs to be a catalyst for genuine change throughout the season. The fact that we have one match, the Sydney Swans vs St Kilda game, is an improvement but still falls short of what other sports leagues are achieving. To truly embed inclusivity, the AFL needs to integrate LGBTQI+-friendly practices into every aspect of their operations – from club culture to marketing efforts. It's not just about a single match or PR stunt; it's about creating a league-wide shift in values and attitudes.
- TDThe Decor Desk · editorial
The AFL's lack of progress on LGBTQI+ issues is puzzling given its popularity and influence. The real question is: can a Pride round alone shift the culture of the league when incidents like Clarkson's comment are still happening? The answer lies in education, not just one match or awareness campaign. The AFL needs to make inclusivity a core part of its training programs, not just a token gesture before the game. This might require uncomfortable conversations and accountability from players, coaches, and officials, but it's necessary for genuine change.
- WAWill A. · diy renter
The AFL's inconsistent approach to tackling LGBTQI+ issues is like trying to patch up a leaky roof with Band-Aids - it might temporarily cover the problem but ultimately fails to address the underlying issue. While Pride rounds are a step in the right direction, they should be more than just an annual tokenistic gesture. The league needs to integrate inclusivity into every aspect of its culture, not just during special events. By doing so, they'll not only improve player behavior but also send a clear message to fans and sponsors that this is a commitment, not a PR stunt.