The Collingwood Football Club is committed to the principles of equality and respect.

It is important, as the club evolves and continues to build a place for all in the Collingwood community, that these principles are honoured and upheld.

As such, the club has taken the decision to suspend the memberships of two fans for offensive comments posted on social media after last night’s match against Geelong in Perth.

 “The posts were not acceptable and we have an obligation to call them out,” Collingwood chief executive, Mark Anderson, said.

“Tolerance, the celebration of difference and respect are qualities important to what we are striving for at Collingwood but none of these grant anyone the right to insult and demean others. We expect better of everyone involved with the club.”

Consideration of reinstating a suspended membership is not entertained until the person concerned acknowledges his or her wrongdoing, apologises and demonstrates an understanding of the hurt caused.

The completion of respect and responsibility education is a precondition of a suspended membership being returned.

A second offence will result in a membership being cancelled.