The Australian Christian Lobby's new fundraising page for sacked rugby player Israel Folau is set to match his previous GoFundMe campaign - with over AU$700,000 donated in around 12 hours.
The new campaign was created overnight on the Australian Christian Lobby's website. The controversial player's previous bid for AU$3 million on GoFundMe was taken down by the crowdfunding platform on Monday.
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ACL has pledged AU$100,000 to help fund Folau's legal battle against former employer Rugby Australia. After a number of social media posts criticising the LGBTQI community on the basis of his Christian faith, Folau's contract was terminated earlier this year.
The Lobby's managing director Martyn Iles tweeted a link to the new campaign on Tuesday morning.
"I have spoken to Israel Folau to let him know that ACL will be donating $100,000 to his legal defence, because it's right and it sets an important legal precedent," Iles wrote on the new page.
"I have also offered to host his online appeal for funds here on our website and he has accepted our offer.
"So, please give generously today to help Israel Folau stand for your religious freedom."
GoFundMe's decision to shut down Folau's fundraiser has only stiffened the resolve of many Folau supporters, with many claiming censorship, discrimination and oppression of free speech. Some supporters have expressed their plan to donate double their original amount.
A spokesperson for Folau responded earlier that GoFundMe had "buckled" under media pressure. The initial page received backlash as people noted Folau's cause contravened with GoFundMe's commitment to not supporting or defending causes associated with "hate, harassment, bullying, discrimination, or intolerance of any kind relating to... sexual orientation, sex, gender or gender identity".
A Change.org petition to take down his GoFundMe page gained traction over the weekend, with almost 100,000 people signing. Many people have been angered over the wealthy player asking others to fund his "legal action".
The crowdfunding site is currently issuing refunds to all donors after agreeing the fundraiser "violates our terms of service," according to GoFundMe's Australia regional manager Nicola Britton.
"As a company, we are absolutely committed to the fight for equality for LGBTIQ people and fostering an environment of inclusivity. "
News.com.au reports Folau has launched legal proceedings with the Fair Work Commission and is seeking up to $10 million in damages.
A number of high-profile figures have come out in support of Folau's legal battle, including Don Brash and senator Eric Abetz, who reportedly said GoFundMe are "claiming they are being inclusive while they are excluding people... that they are being tolerant while they are discriminating."
The ACL's new fundraiser has also set a goal of AU$3 million to help Folau's legal case.
Newshub.
