Tayla Harris, an Australian football player and professional boxer, recently posted a picture of herself on Twitter with the caption, “Here’s a pic of me at work. Think about this before your derogatory comments, animals.”
This was apparently in response to Australian TV network 7AFL removing the image due to some of the controversial comments it had gathered.
However, even though the station removed the image with good intentions, their action has backfired and has drawn a lot of criticism towards the network.
Here’s a pic of me at work… think about this before your derogatory comments, animals. pic.twitter.com/68aBVVbTTj
— Tayla Harris (@taylaharriss) March 19, 2019
An apology was subsequently issued, explaining that the image had to be taken down after it managed to draw a storm of negative comments.
The network’s statement read: “We’re sorry. Removing the photo sent the wrong message. Many of the comments made on the post were reprehensible & we’ll work harder to ban trolls from our pages. Our intention was to highlight @taylaharriss incredible athleticism & we’ll continue to celebrate women’s footy.”
That did not seem to please the masses though, as many continued to express their disappointment regarding the picture’s removal.
At this point, some have argued that the story has been getting blown out of proportion. Regardless, Harris seems entirely determined in her position.
Some of the comments regarding the situation have pointed out that it might make more sense in the first place to provide better moderation for the post, instead of merely taking it down.
Some described the network’s actions as being out of touch with the way social media should be used and moderated.
The network has remained quiet on the issue afterward, although many have continued to discuss the story online.
According to 7AFL, users should expect better moderation on social media posts in the future and a more active approach to filtering negative content from their site.
The athlete reacted to all the drama on a Melbourne radio station. She stated: “That is what I would consider sexual abuse on social media. I don’t want to give oxygen to the trolls but … I saw the comments. I know I shouldn’t read them, but it’s hard not to … and I can see in people’s profile pictures that they have kids, or they have got daughters, or there are women in their photos — and that is the stuff that I’m worried about.”
Harris did say that the situation is a bit concerning because online trolls are unpredictable.
She said: “These people are behind screens now, but no one’s saying they aren’t going to show up at the footy at the weekend. I genuinely consider that they might show up at the footy. If they’re thinking this way and able to write it down, what are they going to do when I’m on sideline meeting some kids – that’s what I’m going to have to think about now.”
Gerry Murphy, her boxing coach, has spoken to the media and is asking her to be more “careful” when she is on her own with all of this extra attention.
He explained: “I used to be the boxing coach at Hawthorn footy club. I trained Buddy and Luke Hodge, all those people. I would call Tayla the female Buddy Franklin. She’s a freak, an absolute freak as far as physical ability goes.”
Murphy added: “I did speak to her (Wednesday) night and just said with these idiots sexualizing her picture and whatever, that she just has to be very, very careful when she’s on her own.”
The coach concluded with: “I said don’t be alarmed, but you’ve got to be vigilant, especially if you go into a park or on the street on your own. You’ve got to have someone with you. At least for a couple of months.”
Some are hoping the controversy over the viral picture will help fight sexism. As for Harris, she feels “empowered” and a bit overwhelmed by all of the support she has received.
