- Martin Taupau suffered racial abuse in a suburban park
- The NRL star went out with his family to walk the dog
Soccer star Marty Taupau has revealed details of a confrontation in which he was racially abused in front of his children on Australia Day.
The shocking incident has seen the Broncos’ evergreen striker launch a crusade in a bid to tackle racial vilification.
It also follows Indigenous stars Latrell Mitchell and Cody Walker confirming they have been attacked by racist ‘fans’ at South Sydney NRL games.
Speaking in Him Minnow Podcast, The veteran of 255 NRL games recalled being verbally attacked by a fan when he was out with his family.
“I still can’t believe that (racism) happens to this day,” he said.
‘I remember a couple of years ago, ironically, on Australia Day, we had just picked up our puppy and went to the park with the kids.
“We were out for a nice walk and there was another dog who got a little chipper with our dog and I said (to the other dog owner), ‘Can you take your dog?’
‘We were back and forth and I said, “Look, relax, what the fuck is going on?” and she said, “Go back to where you came from.”
Soccer star Marty Taupau (pictured with wife Michelle) has revealed the moment he was racially abused in front of his children on Australia Day.
Following the public attack, Martin Taupau and his wife created a speakers bureau and talent management agency DSRUPTRS, with the aim of educating people about racism.
‘Why every day, on Australia Day, would you say that? I will never forget it and it really hurt me.
‘There were so many things I wanted to do, but what’s the point of reacting when you have your children and family there? “It’s not setting a good example.”
Taupau, who is of Samoan heritage, added that he is “quite callous” and not immune to criticism after a long football career, but was still moved by the unacceptable insult from a stranger.
Following the attack, Taupau and his wife Michelle created a speakers bureau and talent management agency DSRUPTRS, with the goal of educating people about the profound impact of racism.
Taupau, 34, also said he wants to help victims of racial abuse.
“For people who receive racial slurs, it’s best to surround yourself with good people,” he said.
‘It will help you get rid of that hatred and you will be able to express it to your group for sure.
‘I internalize a lot of it, but my wife is the safe person for me. You get supportive feedback to ease the pain and that can empower the next generation.”