Australia's Students Thank Adam Goodes for Standing Up to Racism

"You are a legend."

It's been four years since Adam Goodes exited the AFL, following a barrage of booing he copped in the late stages of his football career.

His story is being re-examined in 2019 thanks to two documentaries: The Final Quarter, which relies on archival footage, and The Australian Dream, which features new interviews with Goodes and is written by journalist Stan Grant.

How to Watch the Adam Goodes Documentaries The Final Quarter and The Australian Dream

Movie Review: The Australian Dream Is a Must-See for All Aussies

Both films link Goodes' treatment on the field to the systemic racism that is often directed at Indigenous Australians. Through Goodes' traumatic experiences, we can understand more about our nation's historical traumas, and chart a path forward.

Ahead of the cinema release of The Australian Dream on 22 August, we asked our members: What would you like to say to Adam Goodes if given the chance?

More than 100 young people replied, offering their thanks while also encouraging Adam to "keep fighting".

Here are our favourite 20 messages of support.

Thank you so much, Adam. Thank you for standing up for yourself and your people, and fighting against the blatant racism prevalent in this country.
Madison from NSW (16)
You have always been my favourite player. You are a legend. I would love you to get the chance to have your retirement lap. cheer cheer
Kiara from WA (18)
What you are doing is amazing for our people in the present and future. Our culture deserves more respect, you're fighting for that! You're amazing.
Tiah from QLD (16)
Being an Indigenous youth I just want to thank you for not giving in and speaking up in society about the things we face everyday.
Jarnda from WA (17)
I’m incredibly proud of you and your journey which has helped me with mine and I’m proud to be an Indigenous Australian alongside with you.
Brooke from VIC (19)
I've been supporting the Swans and you since I was born in 2003 and you're the main reason I aspire for change in present society.
Natasha from WA (16)
I admire the courage and conviction with which you oppose racism, and believe your work is imperative in creating a better future for all Australians.
Rachael from QLD (17)
I would say that he should be proud of his accomplishments and not to allow slurs or name calling to shadow his great gift.
Georgia from NSW (14)
Thank you for standing up for Australians as a whole and for your continued work to the community. You are our patriot.
Ahmed from VIC (18)
I would tell him that he's an inspiration to all the young Aboriginal Australians and he helps them keep fighting their battles with courage.
Hayley from WA (17)
I would love to show my appreciation and thank him for inspiring me to continue doing my best no matter the discrimination against it.
Sarith from VIC (19)
I wouldn’t like to say anything. I’d like to listen as I believe I could learn so much from him.
Cristina from WA (19)
You are a true inspiration to me. Not only because you overcame hardships and foul racism, but because you stayed determined to achieve your dream.
Abigail from NSW (15)
Thank you for standing up for a minority who was in need of a public voice to speak their concerns and worries! Stay strong!
Breanna from VIC (17)
He's a big inspiration to me and how he motivates other ethnic groups to stand up for ourselves and not to tolerate bad behaviour.
Dinesh from VIC (15)
Racism isn’t everywhere, there are people like me that love and support you! You’re truly an inspiration with your resilience!
Nelab from NSW (16)
You gave me hope when I saw none. Life cut me down, you brought me up. Role model is too little a word. Thank you.
Nina from NSW (19)
Keep being who you are. Never change. You changed the game of AFL in many different aspects. Both on the field and off it.
Jeremy from VIC (18)
Thanks for being a role model and pushing me to be proud of my race in not only a sporting environment but in life too.
Hannah from NSW (16)
For everyone's sake, please do not stop changing the world.
Herwar from NSW (19)