Platten doesn't need an apology because being called 'rat' was CLEARLY and without question about his general appearance - which he chose and had control over
calling Adam Goodes an ape can either be an innocent slur or an intended racist comment.. it doesn't really matter what the person making the comment intended, it is how the person interprets the remark that is relevant.. that is what society, in general, needs to learn.. Goodes has been called similar before, commented in past interviews how it affected him and he hoped it wouldn't happen again - his reaction is not surprising.. perhaps growing up he had thick skin, but eventually got worn down by the constant comments? until you have walked a mile in his shoes you cannot tell him how he should react.. if he had ignored the comment like a lot suggest, what does that teach the 13yo girl?
judging by the comments in this thread most people have the same attitude as Dermott Brereton did in the 80s and 90s.. its ok, just get over it.. he now understands the impact that his comments had, and has personally sought out and apologised to Chris Lewis etc
it is similar to sexual discrimination rules.. sure, I may mean no harm in saying that Michelle from accounts has a huge rack - but if she takes offence or is made to feel uncomfortable then that consequence is on me.. ignorance of how a comment may affect another person is no excuse
i'm not the biggest fan of Adam Goodes as a footballer, if you want to banter with him make it over the fact that he is a front runner who doesn't put his head over the ball
