The Australian Dream on a Path Towards Reconcilation
In the lead up to the national cinema release of THE AUSTRALIAN DREAM on August 22, leadership groups from national sporting organisations including the AFL, Cricket Australia, the National Rugby League, Rugby Australia, Netball Australia and Athletics Australia have viewed the film and reflected on its importance in expanding the conversation around walking together on a path towards reconciliation. Many of these organisations are now working to incorporate the film into their own Reconciliation Action Plans.
Several of the national sporting bodies have provided statements reflecting on THE AUSTRALIAN DREAM, and we are proud to share these below:
“THE AUSTRALIAN DREAM reflects a story of a man, his people and his country. It is a story of the consequences of speaking out, standing up and being proud – from the voices and actions of support, but also the loud voices of racism and prejudice that focus on one man in a concentrated way that very few have had to endure. The film presents courageous truth telling by Adam Goodes in the context of our history in Australia, led by Stan Grant’s thoughtful and open invitation to better understand what we need to do to heal and take the next important steps on the path to reconciliation.”
Tanya Hosch – General Manager, Inclusion and Social Policy – AFL
“THE AUSTRALIAN DREAM is a powerful and confronting documentary which presents an enormous opportunity for all of us to reflect and learn from what happened to ensure this doesn’t happen again to any athlete or person on and off the field. It’s an opportunity for us all to be open, not fearful or defensive and to start a conversation about what we all can do to promote reconciliation as a united front.
The film shines the light on a problem we all face, across all sporting codes and more broadly society and we recognise that while Australian Cricket has done and continues to do some great initiatives, we have a strong appetite to do more and the film provides the impetus to continue to walk the reconciliation path.”
Courtney Hagen – Indigenous Engagement Specialist – Cricket Australia
“THE AUSTRALIAN DREAM is truth telling in its purest form. It shines a light on the dark side of our national history, its direct impact on our First Nations peoples past and present and painfully dissects the personal trauma delivered to an Australian of the Year and national sporting icon in Adam Goodes. Stan Grant’s work is compelling and confronting and is required viewing for all Australian’s as we continue on the path towards true reconciliation in Australia.”
Mark Deweerd – General Manager, Indigenous Strategy – NRL
“THE AUSTRALIAN DREAM is essential viewing and a remarkable film. It highlights an uncomfortable part of our society and illustrates the need for all sporting codes to unite and walk together to solve this alarming issue.” Adam Thomas – Head of Diversity and Inclusion – Rugby Australia
“Athletics Australia views the journey of reconciliation as extremely significant. As a Federation we have therefore embarked on our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan, which will guide our journey. We believe that Adam Goodes’ story THE AUSTRALIAN DREAM will help the Australian public not only understand the impact racism has on all communities, but also help people embrace the cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.”
Sean Dixon – Diversity and Inclusion Manager – Athletics Australia
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