Western Port Basketball wants to ensure that our competitions and facilities are one that all can feel comfortable and supported at, there is no place in our community for discrimination or intolerance. WPBA as an association and greater the sport of basketball across Victoria have had multiple reports of discrimination including racism. We would like to use these allegations as a reminder that any comments relating to someone’s physical appearance, whether it be racist, or body shaming will not be tolerated at WPBA. These reports have come from competitions as young as U/12’s!
We asked Steelers Big V Star Naaman Hightower for a comment “Racism is a deep rooted issue across the world that effects so many people of colour. It can range from blatant verbal insults to small micro aggressions and stereotypical biases that we all have but may go unchecked. I think the most important thing that a single person can do to effect change is to have the uncomfortable conversations about things that we may not be so familiar with. Other peoples experiences in life can be a learning tool for everyone so long as the ears that are listening are intent on understanding with a soft heart and being open to learning”.
As an association and community over the last few years we have become very diverse, be it race, sexual orientation or disability. As a country about half of us were born overseas or had one or more parents born overseas. The one thing we all have in common is a passion and love for the game of basketball. No matter your skin colour or looks everyone deserves to be treated fairly
If an incident occurs in your game we ask that you immediately contact one of our staff members in righting by clicking here