Heritier Lumumba last night rejected an approach from Collingwood president Jeff Browne during a poignant healing ceremony led by Nicky Winmar.
More than 1000 people, including some of the biggest indigenous names in the game, gathered at Victoria Park as Winmar marked the 30th anniversary of his defiant stand against racism.
Lumumba, who arrived with former Gold Coast Suns player Joel Wilkinson, was subjected to years of racism at Collingwood and the subsequent Do Better report in early 2021 found the Pies guilty of systemic racism.
Witnesses said Browne, who assumed the Collingwood presidency in late 2021, politely approached Lumumba towards the end of proceedings.
The former Pies defender refused to speak to Browne and walked away. Witnesses said he told Browne to “please respect my space”.
This version of events is disputed by Collingwood, but it was clear Lumumba didn’t want to engage.
Browne and Lumumba have never met. The Collingwood president was hoping to open the lines of communication to the former player, but respected the fact Lumumba felt differently.
Browne was also seen in conversation with Wilkinson, while Lumumba sought out current Collingwood captain Darcy Moore.
Browne was invited to speak, while AFL executive Andrew Dillon also addressed some attendees.
On what was a powerful night, ex-players formed a circle on the ground where Winmar lifted his jumper 30 years ago to share their thoughts and experiences.