Page 986 - Week 03 - Thursday, 10 April 2014
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It remains, however, that within a sporting context, LGBTI people continue to feel isolated, excluded and unable to be themselves. The language used, the actions taken by some, the gender-based structure of sport and the policy platforms within sport do not always provide these members of our community with any sense of inclusion or welcoming into a sporting club.
We seem to increasingly celebrate every time a profile athlete “comes out”. Sports, teams and leagues, publicly at least, applaud the courage of the individual to make this statement and believe that their bravery in coming out positively reflects on the environment of inclusion that they have created. Today in the Canberra Times we read about Canberra rugby union player Bill Lockley talking about his victimisation and of homophobia playing with a gay rugby team.
The environment of inclusion is so important. So it is pertinent to ask why an athlete was not open as to their sexuality in the first place. Why do so many young footballers, hockey players or swimmers feel compelled to keep their sexuality hidden? Why do they fear the consequences of isolation—no selection or victimisation for simply being themselves? This is an issue.
Sport is making positive moves in the right direction. Four professional codes all signed up yesterday stating their commitment to tackle homophobia, but signing a statement of intent is not the end of the game. Here in the ACT, Australia’s active capital, we are tackling this issue seriously. As a longstanding supporter of “Play by the Rules”, promoting the virtues of safe sporting environments at all levels, we are working to ensure that LGBTI people are welcomed and supported within sport in the same way as any other person seeking to participate and reap the virtues of playing sport.
Support for the inclusive sport program is, I understand, within the banner of “Play by the Rules”, shining a focused light on LGBTI issues. To understand the realities and perceptions for this community in regards to sport is the foundation for helping us to address the issues.
I understand that a significant piece of local research is supporting this work, informing campaigns, education and activities of lasting legacy within sports. This can ensure that the structures and policies of community and elite sports support access and participation for LGBTI people.
Sport can blaze trails for social change. We should recognise the leadership of the AFL, NRL, Australian Rugby Union and Cricket Australia in signing a commitment to develop a framework to address homophobia in sport. But, as I said, this is not the end game. As we saw with Adam Goodes last year, the issue of racism in sport is not won and a challenge continues. Addressing access and equity for LGBTI people may be much the same. It will not be an instant win, but yesterday and, indeed, the great work underway at the grassroots level here in the ACT, is giving us a great foundation to address this important issue.
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