Ita Buttrose slams ‘toxicity in public discourse’ following abuse levelled at Stan Grant

Ita Buttrose has called upon Australians to rethink their “abhorrent” and “unacceptable” conduct on social media.

Ita Buttrose has called upon Australians to rethink their “abhorrent” and ”unacceptable” conduct on social media, citing the recent treatment of renowned Indigenous journalist Stan Grant.

Grant’s decision to step away from his media engagements was made public last week, sparking a flurry of speculation over whether he would return to the broadcaster.

The respected Wiradjuri journalist, also known for hosting Q+A, conveyed his sentiments through his weekly column, expressing his disappointment at the absence of public backing from the ABC following the racial abuse he endured after appearing in the broadcaster’s coverage of King Charles III’s coronation.

During an interview on ABC Radio Melbourne, Buttrose voiced her “appalled” reaction upon learning about Grant’s experiences.

“If I had been informed earlier, I would have personally addressed this matter with him. Unfortunately, I, like many others, only became aware of it relatively late,” she said.

Buttrose raised concerns about the impact of such abusive behaviour on the ability of Australians to engage in “constructive discussions.”

Ita Buttrose has called upon Australians to rethink their “abhorrent” and “unacceptable” conduct on social media.

“The prevalent culture of abuse and toxicity in our public discourse, be it in sports, social issues, or politics, has left people disillusioned. Disagreements can be expressed without resorting to abusive language,” she stressed.

She further assured the public that the ABC was extending support to the veteran broadcaster and that she hoped for his return “as soon as he feels ready.”

Buttrose also emphasised the need for the national broadcaster to bolster its approach to tackling racism.

“I believe this has become evident, particularly in light of the managing director’s appearance during the Senate estimates this week,” she noted.

During the Senate estimates, ABC managing director David Anderson affirmed his intention to collaborate with other media organisations to address this issue.

Grant’s actions have served as a valuable lesson for the entire community, according to Ms. Buttrose.

Grant’s decision to step away from his media engagements was made public last week, sparking a flurry of speculation over whether he would return to the broadcaster.

“Management must ensure that we provide support to those who create such content. Stan’s decision to step back has triggered an immense public response, sparking a widespread outpouring of public commentary on public life,” she remarked.

On Monday, ABC news director Justin Stevens expressed his devastation at Grant feeling let down by the organisation’s management during an interview on ABC Radio Melbourne.

“We need to develop the habit of calling out such behaviour more frequently and consistently,” Stevens asserted.

He criticised other media outlets for amplifying the concerns of trolls, drawing a fine distinction between scrutiny and piling on.

“We must refrain from targeting individuals for simply doing their jobs,” he urged.

Stevens’ statements came in the wake of an apology from ABC managing director David Anderson, who expressed his dismay at the distressing treatment Grant had encountered.

Anderson pledged to review the broadcaster’s response to racism, underscoring its commitment to address such incidents effectively.

It came after police charged a man with making online threats towards Grant just hours after the journalist and his wife were spotted attending a Sydney police station to file a complaint.

On Wednesday, Grant, 59, and wife Tracey Holmes were seen at Randwick police station in Sydney’s east.

NSW Police confirmed in a statement to news.com.au that officers arrested a man on Thursday after investigating alleged threats made against a “59-year-old man”.

“About 11.50am on Tuesday (25 May 2023), officers attached to Sydney City Police Area Command received a report of alleged online threats made against a 59-year-old man,” the statement reads.

“Following inquires, police arrested a 41-year-old man in Fairfield Heights at 6.40pm yesterday (Wednesday 24 May 2023).

“The man was taken to Fairfield Police Station where he was charged with use carriage to threaten serious harm and carriage service to menace/harass/offend.

“The man was granted bail to appear before Fairfield Local Court on Wednesday 31 May 2023.”