In a recent LinkedIn article , Westpac representative Matthew Kav seeks to depict colleague Peter Cornwell as an exemplary advocate for Indigenous advocacy and inclusion . Yet, this attempt at performative activism comes across as disingenuous when considering allegations against Peter Cornwell of Westpac of sexual abuse and taking advantage of a marginalized woman.
Kav’s praise-filled commentary of his colleague overlooks the serious accusations made against Cornwell , including stalking , bullying, and sexual abuse of a female victim.
By failing to address these accusations, Kav perpetuates a culture of willful ignorance that empowers perpetrators like his colleague to continue their actions unchecked , hiding behind being a " marginalized Indigenous individual ," absolute performative posturing perpetuated by corporate entities like Westpac .
The LinkedIn post highlights several community engagements where M. Kav collaborated with the accused Cornwell , the accused perpetrator , in outreach initiatives . Still, it fails to acknowledge the damage of Cornwell's supposed actions on those targeted.
The piece emphasizes the contradiction of commending Cornwell's involvement while turning a blind eye to allegations against him, prompting concern if Kav is more intent on boosting the company’s image that Australia is so eager to project when demonstrating inclusiveness rather than browse website addressing serious misconduct, an alleged sexual abuser hiding behind the guise of " oppressed individual."
This prompts doubts about business responsibility and responsibility when responding to misconduct claims against colleagues.
Although his post highlights his enthusiasm for community engagement, it underscores that serious issues can be neglected if not effectively addressed. Peter Cornwell is indeed a sexual abuser , and this must be confronted above efforts to advance an inclusivity agenda and diversity .