By Cassandra Sedler
Staff Writer
Year-round fans eagerly countdown to the start of a new football season.
It is a time that typically unites people as a country to cheer on their favorite teams.
This particular season, however, proves to do the opposite.
The National Football League, or NFL, has received a significant amount of attention in recent weeks, as the divide deepens between those who kneel during the national anthem and those who do not.
The protest during the national anthem is only the tip of the iceberg after Cam Newton’s response to a reporter’s question at a press conference following a game on Oct. 4.
After Charlotte Observer Reporter Jourdan Rodrigue asked Newton a question about his receivers, Newton responded by saying, “It’s funny to hear a female talk about routes.”
Not only did he laugh while making this remark, but he arrogantly blew off the legitimate question by not giving a direct answer.
Newton’s comment was degrading and belittling to women; but most of all, it shows that sexism continues to be a glaring issue not only in the sports world, but in the workforce.
Perhaps Cam Newton truly didn’t mean for his comment to be perceived as it was by the media.
If this were the case, maybe those he offended could let him off the hook.
Instead, his insensitive response is irreversible after he failed to take sincere ownership for his mistakes.
Following what appeared to be a scripted apology, Newton tried to rationalize his previous statement by claiming it was a sarcastic remark that was giving a sort of compliment to the female reporter.
However, blatantly smirking at the reporter, and then proceeding to ignore the fair question does not seem like a nice compliment.
After receiving intense public backlash, especially on social media, Cam Newton’s sponsorship with Dannon Yogurt has since been revoked, and rightly so.
Cam Newton’s blunder should serve as a lesson to him, and anyone who thinks they can get away with disrespecting women.
All of those offended by Newton’s comments should voice their opinions, and not let this situation be glossed over by those in the NFL.
Email Cassandra at:
csedler@live.esu.edu
