Israel Folau’s supporters have raised over $1.2million in just one day after GoFundMe shut down the former rugby star’s crowdfunded campaign to help with his legal battle with Rugby Australia.
The Australian Christian Lobby set up the alternative donation website after GoFundMe removed Folau’s original campaign which raised more than $760k in four days. GoFundMe said they will refund all donations back to Folau’s supporters.
Nicola Britton, regional manager for GoFundMe Australia said the campaign was shut down because they will not tolerate the promotion of discrimination or exclusion.
“As a company, we are absolutely committed to the fight for equality for LGBTIQ people and fostering an environment of inclusivity,” she said. “While we welcome GoFundMes engaging in diverse civil debate, we do not tolerate the promotion of discrimination or exclusion.”
“This is a peaceful uprising of quiet Australians. A voice that cannot be ignored,” Martyn Iles, Managing Director of the Australian Christian Lobby tweeted after the new campaign topped $1,000,000. “One man’s conviction is what it took – thank you, Israel Folau.”
