The New Zealand Rugby Union has not responded to a request for a sit-down interview to canvass the issue of homophobia in the sport. It’s something which has been in the spotlight since queer rugby fan Hannah Spyksma spoke out about the homophobia she was subjected to at an All Blacks’ game at Eden Park, and All Black Israel Dagg called another player a ‘fag’ in a tweet. At the time All Blacks manager Darren Shand released a statement, saying "While Israel didn't intend to cause offence and has apologised for his use of the word, we do not condone the use of any language which people may find offensive." The NZRU appears unwilling to discuss the issues any further. GayNZ.com staff had hoped for a proper sit-down interview to canvas issues such as how a gay All Black would be supported, whether an anti-homophobia/transphobia charter would be considered, and to learn more about the union’s new sideline behaviour initiative APPLAUD.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Tuesday, 25th June 2013 - 12:45am