Former AFL footballer turned ABC presenter Tony Armstrong has spoken out about the growing sense of 'racism fatigue' among Indigenous Australians, particularly in light of the contentious Voice referendum and the lack of diverse representation in sports media.
Armstrong, a proud Indigenous man and rising media personality, highlighted the emotional toll of constantly confronting racism, both in public discourse and within the AFL community. 'There's only so much you can take before it wears you down,' he said.
The Voice Referendum and Its Impact
The debate surrounding the Indigenous Voice to Parliament has further exacerbated tensions, with Armstrong noting that many Indigenous Australians feel exhausted by the relentless scrutiny and opposition to their rights. 'It's not just about politics—it's about basic respect,' he emphasised.
AFL's Role in Representation
Armstrong also criticised the lack of Indigenous voices in AFL broadcasting, despite the sport's significant Indigenous player base. 'We’re on the field, but not in the commentary box,' he remarked, calling for greater diversity behind the scenes.
His comments come as the ABC faces its own challenges in balancing coverage of Indigenous issues while navigating a polarised national conversation.
