Mathew Stokes writes open letter to PM over "lifestyle choices" comments

Indigenous AFL player Mathew Stokes has written an open letter to Prime Minister Tony Abbott, criticising him for his controversial “lifestyle choices” comment.

The Geelong midfielder’s letter was posted on the club website.

Earlier this month, Mr Abbott spoke about the lifestyle choices of Aborigines and Torres Straits Islanders who lived in remote communities.

“(My letter) is not about politics, or a commentary on what we as a country do right or wrong,” Stokes said.

“It’s not about past decisions made, dollars spent or programs funded.

“It’s about the damage caused by one single statement.

“It’s about the disharmony that can come from one man’s words.”

Stokes said he was moved to write the letter after the way some of his friends reacted to the prime minister’s comments.

“The comments from my circle of mates ranged from ignorance, misinformed and that old Australian way of using humour to get away with some pretty offensive statements,” he said.

“I thought to myself at the time, ‘if that is coming from the mouths of my mates – many who are educated and have some understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues – imagine the conversations going on at smoko all over the country.”

He added Mr Abbott was acknowledged for doing much in the area of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health.

“For him to make the remarks he did, as the leader of our country – what must the world think of us?,” Stokes said.

“His words have isolated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders even more than they are already.

“I don’t think Mr Abbott was deliberately being racist, but one comment from someone in such a powerful position can cause so much damage.”