Folau suffers Burns in dramatic new twist
Image: Gay activist Garry Burns is suing Israel Folau for his anti-gay comments, which have included blaming the current bushfire crisis on same-sex marriage. Image: file photo.
Former footballer Israel Folau is at the centre of a new controversy this morning, with Sydney anti-discrimination campaigner Garry Burns suing him for $100,000 at the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT).
Burns, who successfully sued radio broadcaster John Laws for $10,000 in 2004 over anti-gay comments—which he donated to HIV/AIDS charity, the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation—is known for lodging anti-discrimination complaints using the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act (ADA) 1977.
In his submission to NSW Anti-Discrimination Board president, Dr Annabelle Bennett, Burns alleged Folau’s comments about gay people breached Section 49ZT of the ADA.
A copy of the complaint, seen by the Star Observer, said: “On or about 11 April 2019 … Mr Folau published a warning that hell awaits homosexuals.
“By publishing those statements … Mr Folau has portrayed homosexual men and women as people who should be shunned and/or avoided on the grounds of their homosexuality and by doing so, has breached the provisions of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977,” wrote Burns.
Burns also took umbrage with Folau’s comments linking the current bushfire and drought crises in Eastern Australia with homosexuality.
“On or about 17 November 2019 … Mr Folau said: ‘God says for a man and a woman to be together … they’ve changed that law and now they’ve legalised same-sex marriage.’
“‘Look how rapid these bushfires, these droughts, all these things have come, in a short period of time. You think it’s a coincidence or not? God is speaking to you guys. Australia, you need to repent.’”
Burns said Folau’s linking of homosexuality to natural disasters was “objectively capable of incitement of contempt and/or hatred of homosexual persons”.
He also expressed concern for young LGBTQI Australians, who he said were vulnerable to statements by prominent public figures.
“Folau’s statements [are] capable of having a dire effect on … teens who may suffer from low self esteem issues.
“The continual targeting of them by Mr Folau in the media … as inferior … could lead those teens to suicide,” he said.
“I allege Mr Folau’s linking of my homosexuality to the cause of natural disasters like bushfires, drought and death of animals … and human death, is pernicious and unlawful under ADA 1977,” Burns concluded.
The activist said that if successful, he would donate the $100,000 to LGBTQI youth support service, Minus18.
Burns is currently embroiled in another legal battle over homophobic comments.
He was recently hit with an $82,000 legal bill after a failed court bid against former Victorian political candidate Tess Corbett, who compared gays to paedophiles.
Burns is currently utilising crowdfunding platform GoFundMe to raise funds to pay the bill.
His donation page—located online at gofundme.com/f/help-garry-burns-meet-high-court-legal-costs—has raised almost $4000 so far.
Folau is due to begin court-ordered mediation with Rugby Australia in the Federal Circuit Court of Australia today over his dismissal.
He is seeking $14 million in compensation for what he claims was his unlawful sacking over social media posts stating that equal rights for LGBTQI Australians are “evil”.
Garry, you are authentic and walk the talk! I’d like to see our wider community support your GoFundMe. Of course, there will those who are embarrassed to witness your actions of just one man.
Hello Steve,
Thanks for your kind words but I have a fiancé.
We are waiting on Chandana’s visa to be approved.
Chandana is Sri-Lankan and a chef.
I always try to stand up for what I believe is right. I have nothing but the best intentions for GLBTI people.
I’m hopeful that I can meet with Mr Folau and raise my concerns with him to head of litigation. I have sent his solicitor a jotting seeking a meeting.
Many people have helped me with a donation to my GoFundMe page which is linked to this article because I have High Court costs to pay.
I thank them for their support.
I think a winner is a person who does his or her best regardless of the outcome.
Garry you are the best. Good luck with the courts, hope you win a big payout! What a true gay activist legend you are mate. Always stand up to what is right immediately everytime. I hope you’re single and dateable, because I want to take you out to dinner my treat. ????????????
Australia fast becoming the sue state, just like America!
Excellent work, Mr Burns. We need more people like you to stand up against the ubiquity and insanity of religious bigotry.
I will be making a donation to your appeal, and I hope many other gender and sexually diverse people will also.