Former punter Chris Kluwe has reached a legal settlement with the
team that fired him after he became an outspoken advocate for
same-sex marriage.
The Minnesota Vikings will contribute an undisclosed amount of
money to several LGBT organizations and reaffirmed a commitment to the team's
policy of zero tolerance for any discrimination and harassment due to someone's
race, religion, national origin or sexual orientation.
The team also promises to work to build awareness and understanding
of LGBT issues in professional football and in sports in general.
'As a family we have long-supported equal rights causes, including
marriage equality,' team owner and president Mark Wilf said in a statement. 'We are glad a resolution of
this matter has been reached, and we look forward to continuing our efforts to
create positive awareness of these issues.'
Kluwe issued his own statement saying: 'I intend to continue to
speak out on behalf of marriage equality. I am pleased to be a part of the
impact the Vikings material charitable contributions will have on LGBT and
related causes.'
Kluwe, who is straight, went public in January with allegations
that special teams coach Mike Priefer had made gay slurs at him saying at one
point: 'We should round up all the gays, send them to an island, and then nuke
it until it glows.'
Kluwe also said Priefer would ask him if I had written any letters
defending "the gays" recently and denounce as disgusting the idea
that two men would kiss, and he would constantly belittle or demean any idea of
acceptance or tolerance.
Kluwe threatened to sue the team for $10 million for defamation of
character and emotional distress if the organization didn't punish Priefer.
Following an investigation, the team suspended Priefer for three
games which Kluwe deemed a mere slap on the wrist.
Priefer initially denied making any homophobic comments but has
since admitted to making at least one comment and apologized.
Vikings Owner and Chairman Zygi Wilf issued a statement saying the
team appreciated Kluwe's contributions to the team during his eight seasons in
on.
' ... He established many team records as our punter, and we wish
him and his family the best in the future,' Zygi Wilf stated.
He added: 'In regards to this matter, our focus remains on
maintaining a culture of tolerance, inclusion and respect, and creating the
best workplace environment for our players, coaches and staff.'
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