Carey was one of several high profile ex players to have questioned Brown\u2019s bold look, where he turned heads alongside partner Louisa Keck, who is expecting the couple\u2019s first child.<\/p>\n
The former West Coast star came out publicly last year as the first openly bisexual AFL player, past or present.<\/p>\n
The 37-year-old appeared at the black tie event in a black sleeveless mesh top, smiling as he posed for photos with Keck.<\/p>\n
The ensemble was all too much for some. <\/p>\n
Brown on Saturday responded to the public criticism with an extended statement shared on Instagram where he appeared to single out Carey, Melbourne Demons great Garry Lyon and Essendon great Tim Watson.<\/p>\n
\u201cI didn\u2019t want to give this any more oxygen, but I feel like this is one of those learning moments,\u201d he posted on Instagram. <\/p>\n
\u201cTim, Gary, SEN and the other one*, although you will never know or care to understand. Your commentary this week is emblematic of why in 130 years and counting, there is still no current queer AFL men\u2019s players who feel safe enough to be themselves.<\/p>\n
\u201cI understand that many people assume that wearing a shirt and tie equals respect. What is missing from this assumption is the decades of frustration, hurt and exclusion that strict gendered dress codes have caused to members of the queer community. <\/p>\n
\u201cIf we want the sport to be more inclusive, we need to be more open and accepting to the ways in which the queer community choose to express themselves.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt makes me question whether you actually want queer players to be able to come out? Or if they do, will they only be accepted if they act and look exactly like you?<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is so much more than a mesh vest and that\u2019s why it\u2019s important you learn why or at least try. <\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
\u201cIf my outfit made you so uncomfortable that I shouldn\u2019t be allowed to attend, then perhaps it\u2019s worth reflecting on how uncomfortable these beliefs and attitudes have made the queer community feel for the last 130 years. <\/p>\n
\u201cI know change can be uncomfortable. But at least try. If not for yourselves, then for the closeted queer people in your life.\u201d<\/p>\n
His asterisk mention of the \u201cother one\u201d is widely interpreted to have referenced Carey after the former North Melbourne premiership winner criticised his attire in public.<\/p>\n
The use of the term \u201cPOS\u201d is widely used to replace the words \u201cpiece of s***\u201d. <\/p>\n
\u201c*Not giving this alleged DV perpetrator\/POS the time of day,\u201d Brown wrote. <\/p>\n
\u201cIf he thinks I\u2019m wrong, I\u2019m definitely doing something right.\u201d<\/p>\n
Carey was in 2024 blocked by the AFL from being elevated to Legend status in the NSW Australian Football Hall of Fame.<\/p>\n
Despite being listed to become one of 10 inductees elevated to Legend status, Carey did not attend the event after consultation with AFL CEO Andrew Dillon.<\/p>\n
In 1997 Carey pleaded guilty to indecent assault after grabbing a woman\u2019s breast while in 2006 he allegedly hit himself over the head with a bottle and wrestled with a security guard after an alleged domestic dispute with then-girlfriend Kate Neilson.<\/p>\n
In 2007 Miami police were called to a hotel after Carey allegedly smashed a wine glass into Neilson\u2019s face and was convicted of battery on a law enforcement officer when he kicked a female officer in the mouth.<\/p>\n
Earlier this week Carey wrote in social media: \u201cMitch Brown HOF outfit seriously?? \u200d\ufe0fBlack tie function, biggest night on AFL calendar.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ex-Melbourne captain Lyon also said on his SEN Breakfast radio show: \u201cIf he had a black jacket on I wouldn\u2019t have a problem.<\/p>\n
\u201cBut the interpretation gets lost when the jacket comes off. A mesh singlet ain\u2019t the go for black tie.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf he had have kept his jacket on that would have been acceptable, that ain\u2019t cutting for a black tie Hall of Fame.\u201d<\/p>\n
Brown directly responded to a criticism on Instagram, saying: \u201cOh, so sorry completely forgot that men aren\u2019t allowed to express themselves. Back in my box I go.\u201d<\/p>\n