The National Rugby League will celebrate Indigenous Round this weekend (Round 22), with a range of activities planned across matches.
The round will highlight the significant contribution that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people make in rugby league, both on and off field.
Throughout the round, the NRL will promote its partnership with RECOGNISE, the people's movement to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Australian Constitution and ensure there's no place in it for racial discrimination.
In support of the cause, all 'zeroes' on 40-metre lines at matches will be transformed into the RECOGNISE symbol.
NRL Head of Community Adam Check said the round was an important occasion on the NRL calendar for players and fans to celebrate as one.
"The NRL is proud of its work and support of Indigenous communities and this weekend is another opportunity for us to recognise equality for all," said Mr Check.
"We were the first national sporting code to develop a Reconciliation Action Plan in 2008 and we continue to strengthen our resolve in implementing Indigenous strategies and programs, ensuring that our support of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is at the forefront of our game."
Other activity planned across the round includes:
For the first time during a regular NRL round, referees will wear an Indigenous jersey, designed by contemporary Indigenous artist, Chern'ee Sutton. Chern'ee's heritage lies with the Kalkadoon people from the Mount Isa area in Queensland
Traditional dances will be performed at matches
A welcome/acknowledgement will take place at matches
Indigenous players will take part in the coin toss prior to matches
Local Indigenous teams will play at half-time across matches
A guard of honour will be formed at matches by members of the Clontarf Foundation, which exists to improve the education, discipline, life skills, self-esteem and employment prospects of young Aboriginal men
Young indigenous players will run out with teams
Internationally acclaimed Indigenous singer, actor and NRL ambassador Jessica Mauboy will perform prior to the Broncos vs. Bulldogs clash at Suncorp Stadium
NRL teams wearing Indigenous jerseys include the Cowboys, Sharks, Broncos, Eels, Knights, Panthers and Storm
Fans are encouraged to attend an Indigenous Round match live, with tickets available at www.nrl.com/tickets
For further information on how you can support and learn more about the RECOGNISE movement, visit www.recognise.org.au
Fan can also follow #NRLIndigenous to keep up to date with activity across the round.
