Shades of Racism – Aboriginality and Sport in Australia Essay Example

as subservient pets.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Indigenous athletes faced ongoing prejudice and racial barriers that hindered their progress. Albert Henry, a notable Aboriginal cricket player, experienced discrimination in 1904 when he was continuously targeted and unfairly penalized during a match due to unfounded claims about Aboriginal genetics. This mistreatment led him to leave the pitch in disgust. Moreover, legislative Acts of Parliament further demoralized Indigenous Australians by encouraging them to deny their heritage in order to avoid discriminatory laws that questioned their intelligence and character. Fortunately, the situation started to change in the 1960s when a new generation of talented Aboriginal athletes emerged and gained recognition in the mainstream media. This included individuals such as Lionel Rose, Oven Collagen Called, and Derby McCarthy.

During a significant moment in FL history, Carlton legend and indigenous player Sad Jackson was found innocent by the tribunal after hitting another player due to racist provocation. Although the claim was initially made in order to have Jackson play in the Grand Final, it was a key step towards eradicating racial slurs from professional football. Indigenous Jockey Derby McCarthy also played a crucial role in raising awareness about the challenges faced by indigenous populations. McCarthy strongly believed that if he achieved success, it was vital to be recognized as an aboriginal success. This response was prompted by the Australian media's tendency to exclude aboriginal athletes from their demographic, employing a condescending approach to explain that these exceptional individuals had managed to surpass the apathy experienced by their own people.

10 The general belief was that they were recognized as Australians only when they were winning, but as Aborigines at

all other times. Although the racism may have changed from being overt and direct, it still persisted in a patronizing and condescending manner. This racism continued to be demoralizing for both the wider community and the athletes themselves, who aspired to be role models for their race. An Aboriginal activist named Charlie Perkins expressed his opinion that this sporting fame only granted acceptance to Aboriginal people not as individuals, but solely as sports stars. The subtle hints of racism and prejudice remained present even after Cathy Freeman, a proud indigenous Australian, won her track medal during the 1994 Commonwealth Games. Freeman proudly displayed both the Australian and Indigenous flags during her victory lap.

Following this, she received a threat from an official that if she were to attempt something so daring, she would be stripped of any subsequent medals. despite the implementation of anti-vilification rules by leagues like the FALL in 1995 and the EARL in 1997, some individuals believed that these policies were merely a way to appease concerned groups pushing for the abandonment of the age-old saying "What happens on the field stays on the field." Nevertheless, it is hard to dispute that these measures have led to a significant decrease in incidents of racial abuse during games. As the FALL, NOR, and other sporting codes expand into a more diverse and multicultural game, attitudes are slowly changing. In the realm of Australian sports, our athletes have never been more skilled, well-compensated, or coveted. They serve as role models for aspiring indigenous leaders in sports. Unfortunately, there still remains an underlying issue of casual racism.

Casual racism may occur when someone jovially engages in racist

behavior or when it is disregarded as unintentional. While racism has significantly decreased in professional settings, it continues to go unaddressed and remains a major issue in many rural competitions. A rural football fan, speaking anonymously, stated, "Of course I sing out 'black bastard,' but I don't mean it. It's all part of being at the footy on a Saturday arbor. The media exaggerates it too much." This quote captures the relaxed and nonchalant Australian attitude towards racism, and it is this kind of laid-back prejudice that will tarnish Australia's reputation in the eyes of the world.

In 1993, there was a significant moment in the fight against racism. Knick Winner, in the face of racial slurs from the crowd, defiantly pulled up his jumper and pointed to his skin with dignity. However, even after 20 years, incidents of casual racism continue to occur. One example is Andrew Johns referring to an opposition player as a 'black [expletive]' in a motivational speech to his team. It has been suggested that the media plays a major role in perpetuating casual racism. When these athletes receive media coverage, their aboriginal identity becomes the focus of attention. Media attacks often reinforce racial stereotypes, particularly regarding aboriginals being prone to alcoholism and unable to handle pressure. Despite occasional indiscretions, Australia seems to be making progress in eliminating prejudice, as the majority attitudes are gradually eliminating what is considered unacceptable.

In recent years, racism has taken a different form that elicits mixed feelings. While this may initially appear positive, it implies a lack of appreciation or respect. Tony Lockett, a prominent athlete in the Australian Football League, discussed indigenous players and their

unique abilities or skills. It is important to note that his statement is not intended to harm or discredit Aboriginal athletes; however, the consequences of such generalizations can be harmful. Even today, professional football commentators refer to this ability as "black magic" or an innate talent, suggesting it is viewed as a biological advantage rather than the result of hard work. Moving forward, addressing and confronting racist and prejudiced attitudes that have persisted throughout Australia's history remains vital as they still exist today in various forms.

The paper asserts that although progress has been achieved, there remains a considerable distance to cover in the fight against racism. Nonetheless, it recognizes the notable accomplishments attained through intentional promotion of robust societal standards opposing racism. Australian professional football codes have played a pivotal part in fostering acceptance and unity within the country. These sports entities effectively establish and propagate these social norms, particularly among younger individuals.

The power of sports in breaking down cultural, racial, and gender barriers for participation is hard to understand. The authority given to sports, especially popular football codes, by their audiences allows them to shape attitudes and behavior in a distinctive way.