“I’m sick of it": Boy's heartbreaking plea after racist abuse
An Anawain Gamilaroi woman has demanded change after her nine-year-old nephew was left crushed by racist abuse that he allegedly experienced at AFL training.
Shaylee Matthews shared the heartbreaking video of Jarmilles breaking down in a car on LinkedIn.
The young boy was still wearing his team jersey and was in tears as he repeated the racist abuse that was allegedly targeted towards him.
"I hate it when you call me Black," he said through tears.
"I hate when you call me monkey. It's got to stop."
"I'm sick of this. I don't want there to be racism. I'm sick of it. It needs to be over."
When asked if he was okay, Jarmilles replied: "No. I want to go home and go to bed now."
Matthews, who works for the ACT government, said the video exposes the "harsh reality" of racism experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
“This post and videos shared is of my 9 soon to be 10 year old nephew’s experience at AFL training (playing a game he loves) which highlights the harsh reality of racism that persists in our society, especially during National Reconciliation Week (with the theme being Now More Than Ever),” she said.
“It’s a call to action for us all to confront privilege, challenge learned racism, and dismantle the systemic issues that perpetuate injustice for Indigenous youth.”
"The hurtful comments and behaviours faced by Jarmilles not only reflect individual ignorance but also contribute to larger systemic inequalities," she added.
She then called for the public to use Reconciliation Week as an opportunity to fight racism and advocate for change.
"We must advocate for change, demand accountability, and ensure that all children, regardless of their background, are treated with dignity and respect," she said.
"By standing in solidarity, raising our voices, and actively working towards a more just and inclusive society, we can create a future where every child feels safe, valued, and supported.
"Let's turn this moment of pain into a catalyst for meaningful change and a brighter tomorrow for all our children."
Image: LinkedIn/ news.com.au