Friday, October 5, 2012

Players’ Support of Gay Marriage Alters N.F.L. Image


On August 28 Emmett C. Burns Jr, an elected delegate of Maryland, spoke out about Brendon Ayanbadejo, linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens, open support for gay marriage. Burns so taken aback by Ayanbadejo’s support decided to send a letter to Baltimore Ravens owner, Steve Biscotti. This letter entailed a request for Ayanbadejo to refrain from supporting “such injurious actions”. This sparked a heated response from Chris Kluwe, a Minnesota Vikings punter, on sports gossip website Deadspin.com. Kluwes letter essentially asked Burns “How does gay marriage, in any way shape or form, affect your life?” The sports community has overwhelmingly supported Ayanbadjo and Kluwe in their fight to bring equality in the locker rooms, on the field, and in the real world.
            I believe what Brendon Ayanbadjo and Chris Kluwe are doing for the NFL and the sport community in general is amazing. Professional athletes have such a huge impact on their communities, that having just a few accept such a splitting topic as gay marriage can really change the opinions of hundreds. I do believe this will have an impact for years to come, as being gay becomes more acceptable I believe the more gay athletes will be able to be open on their teams. Hopefully without any discrimination. Burns letter to the Ravens owner was uncalled for and unacceptable but as far as the election in November chances are it will not affect him. Chris Kluwes response though quite unfiltered really got to the point. How does gay marriage, in any way shape or form, affect your life?”

No comments:

Post a Comment