Hawthorn Football Club has had ongoing conversations with our First Nations players and staff, as well as the broader staff and player cohort about the upcoming referendum.

We are committed to ongoing education and listening so that we can understand the significance of such moments and demonstrate allyship with First Nations peoples.

Through our conversations, education and learnings, and internal surveys the club has formed a position to support a First Nations Voice to Parliament.

While it would be inappropriate to instruct anyone how to vote, the club believes it is important to make its position clear ahead of the upcoming referendum.

Later this year, our nation will be presented with an opportunity to give greater acknowledgement to our past as well as providing a stronger pathway for a brighter future.

As part of our ongoing education programs at the club, both staff and players are on a journey to learn more about First Nations history and culture.

Our vision for reconciliation is that all Australians have a deep respect and understanding of First Nations cultures. Empowered with knowledge and respect, we will overcome the barriers of the past and celebrate Australia’s unique and rich history.

Hawthorn encourages all Australians to seek to educate themselves in order to form their own views ahead of the referendum later this year.