Israel Folau: All Blacks entitled to their view on discrimination

Just like Israel Folau, the All Blacks and Black Ferns, who star in a new ad for sponsor AIG, are entitled to their say on discrimination | WATCH

Israel Folau celebrates after scoring a try during the Rugby Championship match between the Wallabies and the Argentina Pumas in Canberra last September.

Let’s hear it for the All Blacks and Black Ferns and their video on the “battle” against their latest enemy, discrimination.

You might not agree with them, just as many people don’t agree with Wallaby Israel Folau’s views on homosexuality. But that’s what this free speech thing is all about.

The Blacks and the Ferns have made it absolutely clear they strongly disagree with Folau by releasing the video, a stirring hymn to diversity filmed in Japan — which is actually an ad for sponsor AIG.

The video has provoked criticism and suggestions that New Zealand Rugby is thumbing its nose at Folau.

For those who have been under a rock for the past couple of weeks, Folau sparked a controversy that has split the Australian sporting community, set off a row with Rugby Australia and drawn criticism from around the world by suggesting on social media that gay people were headed for “HELL ... unless they repent of their sins and turn to God”.

Sponsors threatened to withdraw their support for the code and Folau was called in for a “please explain” from Rugby Australia. When RA chief executive Raelene Castle opted not to sanction Folau for his comments, there were claims that rugby wasn’t serious about being a diverse and inclusive sport.

Israel Folau of the Waratahs runs the ball during the round seven Super Rugby match between the Brumbies and the Waratahs last month.

All Blacks players led the charge, with players such as Brad Weber and TJ Perenara condemning Folau.

The new All Blacks video ratchets up the debate again and is likely to come in for some criticism from Folau’s supporters.

But the truth is the All Blacks and Black Ferns players are public figures with every right to a view on these issues and every right to express it. Just as Folau has a right to express his.

Those who express concern about young gay men and women driven to torment and suicide when they see role-models such as Folau condemning them, should take heart. There are plenty of other people expressing alternative views.

Rugby Australia has made its position clear, the sponsors have expressed theirs.

In a vibrant, democratic society, a wide range of people express a wide range of views. It’s all part of the debate.

There is absolutely no need for anyone to be sanctioned. Time to move on.