Posted on 11/21/2002 1:20:21 AM PST by chance33_98
Time To Act Gay Rights Group Tells NFL by Paul Johnson 365Gay.com Newscenter in Washington
Posted: November 21, 2002 12:07 a.m. ET/+5GMT/-3PT
(Washington, D.C.) The Human Rights Campaign Wednesday urged the National Football League to finally address the problem of homophobia in the NFL.
The recent coming out of former NFL player Esera Tuaolo highlights the need for the NFL to take steps to deal with this issue, says HRC.
Executive Director Elizabeth Birch said in a letter to Commissioner Paul Tagliabue that the time to act is now. Birch called on Tagliabue to make it clear that the league will not tolerate harassment and discrimination against gay players. She challenged the commissioner to create a tolerance training program at rookie training camps and to institute partner benefits for gay players families.
"These hard-working employees should not have to fear reprisals, such as getting intentionally injured or cut from a roster - worries well articulated by Tuaolo," Birch said.
Tuaolo, a nine-year veteran of the NFL, came out last month on HBO's "Real Sports." During the interview, he spoke of a homophobic environment in the NFL where he would often hear anti-gay comments or jokes. Remarks by former and current NFL players confirm Tuaolo's assessment of the NFL.
The league already has a non-discrimination policy that includes sexual orientation and also has an anti-harassment policy that forbids "epithets, slurs or negative stereotypes. " However, it is clear that message is not getting through to all of the players, according to HRC.
"Tuaolo's experience and the lack of other 'out' individuals strongly suggest that most players are not aware of the NFL's current rules governing harassment and discrimination," Birch wrote.
"It is clear ... there is a serious problem that needs to be addressed in the near future."
Fan appreciation day - free condoms. I cannot imagine some of the new team names and mascots....
"....The quaterback was seen crying earlier saying that he felt the defense was hitting him too hard. Defense players apologized and showered him with roses as he returned skipping to the field."
I just hope the quarterback does not get his fist stuck while reaching for the ball...
National Homo League?
".......the lack of an adequate number of tight ends vs. wide receivers."
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