Claims of Racism over Mispronunciation of Sports Players’ Names

New Zealand's Pacific Islands Media Association (PIMA) has accused Australia's Fox Sport commentators of racism after names of players from Samoa, Tonga, Papua New Guinea and Fiji were 'butchered' last weekend when the national Pacific teams faced off against each other. PIMA has sent a formal complaint to the broadcaster calling for the correct pronunciation of all indigenous players. They're skilled, impressive players. But the pronunciation of their names by mainstream broadcasters is anything but. NZ's Pacific Islands Media Association (PIMA) claims it's a case of racism. PIMA laid an official complaint on Fox Sports' sports commentators' pronunciation of player names during the recent Pacific Island Rugby League Internationals in Sydney. For over 30 years Australian and NZ broadcasters have struggled with names of indigenous stars. I think it's ignorance. This Maori broadcaster for Sky Sport says it's time for the names to be given the respect they deserve. Every Pacific Islander, including Maori, should be fuming and upset. Names have meaning and are of deep cultural importance. According to statistics, 12% of NRL players are Aboriginal, and more than 40% are of Pacific Island or Maori heritage. So they need to get it right. Their managers need to come down on this, because it's important. Fox Sport hasn't replied to Te Karere, however, one spokesperson has apologised to Ilolahia. An agreement to train broadcasters is still being waited for. Kereama Wright, Te Karere. According to Te Taura Whiri i te Te Reo Maori this will be an important part of this year's Maori Language Week - for mainstream broadcasters to get the pronunciation of Maori names right.