Rachel Cook
The Victorian Country Football League (VCFL) has released an official statement advising its intentions to address homophobia.
The move is the result of ex-football trainer Ken Campagnolo’s complaint of discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation against the VCFL. Campagnolo was stood down from the Bonnie Doon Football Club because of his bisexuality.
“The VCFL Board is committed to the formulating of appropriate policies (including complaints and disciplinary procedures) as well as appropriate training programs, including sexual orientation discrimination in the coming months,” the VCFL CEO Glenn Scott said in the statement.
The Australian Football League (AFL) has praised the move by the VCFL.
“Anything that reduces behaviour which vilifies another player on any basis is good,” AFL Media Spokesperson Patrick Keane told MCV.
Campagnolo has filed complaints of sexual orientation discrimination against the AFL as well, however the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission has closed the case due to several attempts at conciliation which have been unsuccessful.
The AFL believes their current anti-discrimination policy adequately cover homophobia.
“Our Racial and Religious Tolerance Policy covers anyone who feels vilified. Our players have had the message of tolerance whether it be about indigenous players, women or sexual orientation for over a decade.”
Rob Mitchell, of RJM Trust, who is assisting Campagnolo, says the AFL is lagging behind the VCFL on this issue.
“They don’t properly address homophobia, and I will continue to be in dialogue with them about this,” he stated.
Campagnolo is now homeless as a result of being unable to gain employment in his hometown of Mansfield since being outed.
To support Ken Campagnolo go to www.justiceforken.blogspot.com
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