Committee Diversity Statement, February 2022
The AFL Fans Association seeks to represent all footy fans. This includes their right to express diverse and sometimes opposing views on various issues. In most cases, we do not believe it is our role to tell people what to think or do.
The AFLFA recognises the right of fans to passionately support their teams at games and on social media. Free speech is integral to life in Australia.
However, we strongly reject any behaviour by fans, or anyone involved in football, that is motivated by discrimination, whether it be racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic, ableist (prejudiced against people living with a disability) or reflects any other prejudice based on a person’s identity.
People should be judged on their actions, not their race, gender, sexuality, religion, or ability.
We also recognise the pain felt by many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples when Australia Day is celebrated on 26 January, and support working towards a solution that encompasses all Australians, regardless of their cultural heritage and background.
Showing empathy and compassion towards others is important, in life and in sport. Most AFL fans are aware of the importance of treating others as equals and with empathy and do so. We reserve the right to call out the small minority who do not.