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Richmond member banned for AFL racism

Richmond have banned a member for two years after the undisclosed person was found to have racially abused West Coast player Liam Ryan online.

AFL
Liam Ryan of the Eagles was the target of racist remarks on social media. (AAP)

Richmond have banned a member for two years after an AFL investigation found the person racially abused Liam Ryan.

The unnamed person must undertake an Aboriginal education program before the membership is reinstated.

Ryan was abused on social media after the West Coast premiership player was reported during Saturday night's loss to Brisbane.

He is the latest AFL or AFLW player to be targeted for online abuse and it has prompted a backlash in the game.

West Coast have recorded a video, fronted by their indigenous liaison officer Phil Narkle and development coach Chance Bateman, calling for an end to racist abuse.

The AFL said in a statement that its integrity unit identified the Richmond member.

The Tigers separately have confirmed the two-year suspension.

AFL social policy manager Tanya Hosch said the league would refer some online comments to police.

"The comments directed at Liam Ryan are only the latest in what appears to be an increasing number of racist posts appearing on the players, and broader, online platforms," Hosch said.

"The AFL took action regarding on-field racism over 20 years ago, we take action at our stadiums and grounds, but we are now facing vicious commentary appearing on players own accounts, and industry platforms.

"Social media platforms invite commentary and feedback, and the anonymous nature of the commentary allows for the worst aspects of the community to get a voice.

"We have to continue to fight racism by shining a light where and when it happens, by standing with the person vilified and attacked, and by ongoing investment in anti-racism education, communications and campaigns."


2 min read

Published

Source: AAP



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