The Western Bulldogs are a progressive, community based organisation that prides itself on being inclusive and welcoming.
Jason Akermanis’ article is based on his opinion and by no means does he speak for the Club or AFL players as a whole.
The Club do not agree with the views expressed by Jason Akermanis in relation to the potentially negative impact an openly gay footballer would have on a club.
The intention of Jason’s opinion piece was to highlight the issue of homophobia in AFL football, in the hope it would spark debate within the community and provide a catalyst for a change in attitudes.
A reflection of this is clear in today’s article.
“We have made massive steps in other areas of society and in time I hope the environment changes to a degree where coming out isn't a big deal,” Akermanis said.
The Western Bulldogs welcome any person regardless of race, religion or sexual preference and any suggestion to the contrary ignores the tireless work the Club and the AFL does in the Community to open the doors of AFL football to all.
The Club have a long and proud history as a community leader in championing marginalised and minority groups through an extensive range of multicultural, settlement, educational and outreach based programs.
The Club also fully supports the AFL, who have undoubtedly shown the way in terms of confronting and dealing with a range of difficult social and cultural issues.
This issue is one that will undoubtedly benefit from an open and inclusive discussion and is one that the Bulldogs are actively involved in joining and promoting.
To that end the Western Bulldogs, along with our partners Victoria University, are today joining VicHealth and the Gay and Lesbian Health Organisation of Victoria in launching the “Come out to Play” report.
An Australian first, the report details the experiences of gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans gender people who participate in sport and the challenges still being faced.
The Club hopes that with Jason raising the issue of homophobia it will spark a necessary debate within the industry and provide a vehicle for change.
