Israel Folau’s GoFundMe Page Has Been Shut Down
Jason Hennessy
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Taken down.
Israel Folau’s GoFundMe page has been shut down for promoting the exclusion of LGBT people, the fundraising website has said.
The sacked former Wallabies fullback set-up the controversial fundraising page last week and had raised over $750,000 through over 10,000 donors.
But GoFundMe has now come out and said the page violated its rules. All donations will be refunded.
“As a company, we are absolutely committed to the fight for equality for LGBTIQ+ people and fostering an environment of inclusivity,” said spokeswoman Nicola Britton.
“While we welcome GoFundMe’s engaging in diverse civil debate, we do not tolerate the promotion of discrimination or exclusion.”
Folau meanwhile says he is disappointed by the decision to suspend his crowdfunding campaign.
“The decision of GoFundMe to cancel Israel’s fundraising campaign to support his Legal Action Fund is very disappointing,” a spokesman said.
“The fundraising campaign was in line with GoFundMe’s Terms and Conditions as well as all relevant rules and regulations.
“Unfortunately, GoFundMe has buckled to demands against the freedom of Australians to donate to his cause.
“There appears to be a continuing campaign of discrimination against Israel and his supporters.
“Israel Folau is very grateful to the 10,000-plus supporters who believed in good faith that their donations would contribute to his case against Rugby Australia.”
