GLAAD and LA Lakers Address Anti-Gay Language
Today the Los Angeles Lakers joined GLAAD in issuing a release regarding Kobe Bryant’s use of the anti-gay slur f*ggot during a game this week and committing to address homophobic remarks in the sport.
"What happened in Tuesday night's game is not representative of what the Lakers stand for," said Lakers spokesman John Black. "We want to reaffirm our commitment to all our fans and our appreciation for the support we receive from all segments of society. We also understand the importance of positive messages in helping us convey this. We appreciate the input we've received from GLAAD the past two days and will look forward to working with them on ways to help educate ourselves and our fans, and to help keep language like this out of our game."
"In light of this slur, there is a real opportunity to build support for our community and educate fans of Kobe Bryant, the Los Angeles Lakers, and the NBA about the use of such words," said GLAAD President Jarrett Barrios. “The Los Angeles Lakers have taken a positive step and we look forward to working with them to create messages from players and coaches that combat bullying. We also suggested and will continue to advocate for zero tolerance policies for anti-gay slurs at home games, similar to what the New York Yankees adopted last year.”
In addition to the LA Lakers, NBA executives have agreed to meet with GLAAD to discuss ways to send a message about the power of such words to the league’s audience, many of whom are young people, parents or educators.
Recently, GLAAD worked with the New York Yankees and World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) to address issues of homophobia in sports. After working with GLAAD, the New York Yankees adopted a new policy that strictly prohibits anti-gay slurs in Yankee Stadium.
Comments
I applaud GLAAD for taking a stand on Kobe Bryant's serious display of discrimination and insensitivity. His initial apology was from the "sorry you took it wrong" genre of apologies. His second while more sincere was coupled with a statement that he would request a repeal of the fine.
I suggest the following. Those Laker fans who are gay (I know there must be a few) and who consider this form of bullying unacceptable consider this course of action.
During each game of the Lakers, when Mr. Bryant is announced before the game, withold applause, and whats more turn their backs to him until the next player is announced. Further that they sit on their hands, and refrain from both cheering and applause whenever he makes a good play. I suggest this applause boycott continue until a contrite and genuine apology is offered, including enrollment in a sensitivity course and a commitment to work with troubled gay youth. He should likewise commit to making public service announcements in which he will be seen apologizing for his behavior and raising public awareness. At such time as he meets these conditions we can cheer his efforts. This is an outrageous offense from a ridiculously wealthy athlete, who should know better. It's time we stopped accepting luke warm insincere apologies for such egregious conduct.
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It's good to see the Lakers working with GLAAD on this important issue. My husband just interviewed NIKE today for their response to Kobe's outburst. visit the article here.
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