NBA Representative fired for hateful remarks
CASPER, Wyo., Feb. 16 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Matthew Shepard
Foundation applauds David Stern and the National Basketball Association for
taking swift and appropriate action against former Miami Heat Player and
NBA representative, Tim Hardaway. Mr. Hardaway demonstrated blatant
promotion of hate during an interview on 790 The Ticket when he stated that
he "hate(s) gay people" and was admittedly homophobic.
"I am personally thankful that Mr. Stern and the NBA demonstrated
strong leadership in how they dealt with this situation. These actions send
a strong message that 'hate' directed at any member of our society is not
acceptable," said Judy Shepard, Executive Director of the Matthew Shepard
Foundation.
Longstanding homophobia within the sports community has recently become
more apparent to the public because of Mr. Hardaway's inexcusable comments
and the remarks of NFL players who were a part of the Snickers Super Bowl
campaign, which the Matthew Shepard Foundation strongly condemned.
"Hate is a learned behavior. Our sports heroes have a responsibility to
send positive messages to our younger generation to teach them that hate is
unacceptable." concluded Shepard.
The Matthew Shepard Foundation was founded by Dennis and Judy Shepard
in memory of their 21-year-old son, Matthew, who was murdered in an
anti-gay hate crime in Wyoming in October 1998. Created to honor Matthew in
a manner that was appropriate to his dreams, beliefs and aspirations, the
Foundation seeks to "Replace Hate with Understanding, Compassion &
Acceptance" through its varied education, outreach and advocacy programs.
For more information, please visit http://www.MatthewShepard.org.
SOURCE Matthew Shepard Foundation
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Related links:
http://www.MatthewShepard.org
CONTACT:
Matthew Matassa, Communications Director of
the Matthew Shepard Foundation, +1-303-830-7400 ext. 14,
+1-303-588-2872, Matassa@MatthewShepard.org
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