The Tasmania JackJumpers basketball team has issued an apology following backlash over their Indigenous Round jersey design. The design, created by artist Reuben Oates, who identifies as aboriginal, received criticism for incorporating dot art, a style not traditionally associated with Tasmanian Indigenous culture.
In response to the controversy, the club has announced the withdrawal of the jersey from the Indigenous Round games and prohibited its sale to fans. The team expressed regret, stating, “It was never the club’s intention to cause division within the broader Tasmanian Aboriginal community.” Despite this decision, the JackJumpers have emphasized their commitment to community unity and announced that they will continue with other Indigenous Round activities as planned.
Oates, the artist behind the design, defended his work, asserting that his intention was to celebrate Aboriginal culture in Tasmania. He stated, “Dots are dots, I really don’t know what else to say. I’m just going to keep doing what I’m doing because I know what I’m doing isn’t wrong.”
The controversy began when Indigenous fan Rulla Kelly-Mansell raised concerns about the design, pointing out that dot art is not part of the ‘Palawa-Pakana’ culture, which is the Aboriginal name for Tasmanian Indigenous people. Nala Mansell, the campaign manager for the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre, criticized the lack of consultation with the Aboriginal community, emphasizing the need for respectful collaboration.
In response to the criticism, the JackJumpers acknowledged the oversight and pledged to enhance collaboration with the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre and the broader Aboriginal community. The team recognizes the importance of involving the Indigenous community in decisions that directly affect them and is committed to ensuring their perspectives are taken into account in the future.
The controversy surrounding the Indigenous Round jersey design highlights the significance of cultural representation and the need for sensitivity in incorporating cultural elements. It serves as a reminder for sports teams and organizations to engage in meaningful consultations and collaborations with Indigenous groups to avoid unintentionally causing offense or cultural appropriation.
Moving forward, it is crucial for the Tasmania JackJumpers and other sports teams to prioritize inclusivity and cultural respect in their designs and activities. By fostering collaboration and dialogue, they can create a more inclusive and authentic representation of Indigenous cultures, promoting unity and understanding within the broader community.
In conclusion, the Tasmania JackJumpers have apologized for the controversy surrounding their Indigenous Round jersey design and have withdrawn the jersey from use. They have pledged to enhance collaboration with the Indigenous community and are committed to ensuring cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in their future endeavors. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of respectful representation in sports and the need for meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities.
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