We have reached a moment in confronting racism in our footy community where we have failed before.
The online abuse of Liam Ryan has given rise to a fresh and welcome stance taken by indigenous leaders suitably supported by key pillars in the footy world.
As West Coast called out the racism - they matched condemnation with education through the thoughtful words of Chance Bateman and Phil Narkle.
And action followed as one perpetrator was identified and his footy privileges removed for two years.
If you would do that to our footy community you have no place in it. It’s a proper starting point.
Through the troubled days of Adam Goodes and the repeated vilification of Eddie Betts, we have not been able to unite around a sustainable course of action and adequately combat the racism that ruins the experience of men who have enriched the gameimmeasurably.
Perhaps this time will be different.
We can do better and we must do better.