Eni Aluko, a former England striker and broadcaster, recently commented on the importance of being cautious when posting online. After being targeted by ex-footballer Joey Barton on social media, Aluko expressed her hope that the recent judgement declaring Barton’s posts defamatory would serve as a deterrent for people before they speak their minds online. Aluko emphasized that she shouldn’t have to live in fear of facing racial and gender-based attacks every time she appeared on television.
Following remarks made by Aluko in 2020 that seemingly criticized individuals on the government’s furlough scheme, Barton retaliated by suggesting that Aluko’s deceased father had been involved in financial corruption and labeling her a “hypocrite” due to her private education. He also accused her of “playing the race card.” Aluko, while acknowledging the importance of opinions and free speech, highlighted the need to prevent such freedoms from being weaponized to propagate hate speech.
The High Court judge ruled that Barton’s comments, while largely opinions, were defamatory in meaning or innuendo. Aluko stressed the necessity for accountability in changing the culture of online abuse, particularly directed at women in broadcasting. Despite facing threats of violence and social media abuse, Aluko remains committed to her broadcasting career, hoping that the court’s decision will encourage others to speak out against online mistreatment. Barton has the option to contest the ruling in court and has also pleaded not guilty in a separate criminal case involving offensive comments made on social media about Aluko and other broadcasters.
Aluko, a former Lioness with 102 appearances and 33 international goals to her name, retired from professional football in 2020 to pursue a broadcasting career. She remains determined to inspire young black girls and women of color to break into traditionally male-dominated spaces. Barton, who is yet to respond to the recent ruling, may choose to defend his statements if the case proceeds to trial
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