The Tasmania JackJumpers have confirmed that they won’t be wearing their new Indigenous jersey at this weekend’s game following backlash from Tasmanian Aboriginal leaders.
Aboriginal artist Reuben Oates designed the indigenous jersey for the team after being approached by the JackJumpers on social media, however the design’s use of ‘dot art’ has come under fire.
Former Tasmanian Aboriginal of the Year Rulla Kelly-Mansell, who immediately got in touch with the club after seeing the design last week, says it is “misrepresentation” of their culture.
“In our culture we don’t use dot art, we never have,” he said.
“Although it might look nice, what you see on that jersey is really highly offensive to palawa and pakana people, community and culture.”
Nala Mansell from the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre says there was “no consultation with the aboriginal community or any aboriginal community representatives” in the planning of the jersey.
Designer Rueben says despite the backlash, the art is true to his style.
“Dots are dots. I really don’t know what else to say. I’ve been using dots for 25+ years,” he said.
In a statement this on Tuesday night, the JackJumpers say the club “respectfully acknowledge concerns” expressed by the Aboriginal community and have decided not to wear the jersey this weekend or make it available for sale.
“It was never the club’s intention to cause division within the broader Tasmanian aboriginal community and it apologises if members of the community have been affronted by the artwork’s style,” a JackJumpers spokesperson said.
“The JackJumpers will proceed with other Indigenous Round activities and celebrations before and during the game.”
The club says it will continue to work closely with the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre and broader Tasmanian Aboriginal Community moving forward.
