Triple NBL champion and Perth Wildcats guard Corey Webster has issued an apology after posting an offensive social media comment about the LGBTQI+ Rainbow Pride flag. Webster responded to a post featuring the flag asking, “What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you see this flag?” In a comment that has since been deleted, Webster replied, “Mental illness.”
Although the post was deleted, a screenshot quickly circulated online, causing community outrage. Webster later posted “PROTECT THE CHILDREN” before locking his social media account. The Perth Wildcats launched an investigation and released a statement, with Webster conceding that his comments were insensitive.
Webster stated, “While it certainly wasn’t my intent, I understand the hurt my comments have caused, and I am sincerely sorry for this. It wasn’t how I intended my comments to be perceived, and I will take a break from social media and use that time to better educate myself on the impact comments such as this can make on individuals I may have offended.”
The CEO of SEN Teams, which owns the Wildcats, expressed disappointment in Webster’s comments and emphasized that they do not reflect the club’s values. The Wildcats are a community-driven club that stands for inclusiveness and strongly supports the NBL’s Pride Round initiative.
The NBL also condemned Webster’s comments, stating that they are “insensitive and harmful.” The league aims to create a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ individuals and encourages the wellbeing and inclusion of LGBTQ players, members, and fans.
Corey Webster, a talented basketball player from New Zealand, has played for various teams around the world and has represented his country internationally. Despite his basketball achievements, Webster’s offensive comment serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting inclusivity and respect for all individuals, both on and off the court.
Definitions:
– NBL: National Basketball League
– LGBTQI+: An abbreviation for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, and intersex, representing the diverse community of individuals with non-heterosexual orientations or gender identities.
Sources:
– [Source 1]
– [Source 2]
