Australian rugby player compares himself to prophet after disturbing homophobic comments

Israel Folau, an Australian rugby player, has faced backlash after posting an intensely homophobic comment on Instagram. Replying to a comment that asked him what God’s plan was for gay people Folau said “‘HELL.. Unless they repent of their sins and turn to God”.

The comment has drawn a slew of criticism, especially from Qantas, a major sponsor of Australian rugby: “We’ve made it clear to Rugby Australia that we find the comments very disappointing,” said a spokesperson for the LGBT-friendly airline.

Instead of issuing an apology Folau has doubled down on his views and compared himself to a prophet, posting a highlight Bible verse on Instagram: “Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.

“Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.”

Rugby Australia CEO, Raelene Castle, said in a statement: “Israel’s comment reflects his personal religious beliefs however, it does not represent the view of Rugby Australia or NSW Rugby. We are aligned in our view that rugby is a game for all, regardless of sexuality, race, religion or gender, which is clearly articulated in Rugby’s inclusion policy.”

It is still unclear whether he will face any repercussions for his comments.

Tim Gibson - mygwork

__________________

LGBT professionals, LGBT Graduates, LGBT professional network, LGBT professional events, LGBT networking events, LGBT Recruitment, LGBT Friendly organisations, LGBT Friendly companies, LGBT jobs
__________________

SIGN UP to myGwork, the global networking and recruitment hub for LGBTI professionals and graduates

www.mygwork.com
Follow us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
Follow us on LinkedIn