The Minnesota Vikings were made aware of Chris Kluwe’s allegations for the first time today. We take them very seriously and will thoroughly review this matter. As an organization, the Vikings consistently strive to create a supportive, respectful and accepting environment for all of our players, coaches and front office personnel. We do not tolerate discrimination at any level. The team has long respected our players’ and associates’ individual rights, and, as Chris specifically stated, Vikings ownership supports and promotes tolerance, including on the subject of marriage equality. Because he was identified with the Vikings, Chris was asked to be respectful while expressing his opinions. Team ownership and management also repeatedly emphasized to Chris that the Vikings would not impinge on his right to express his views. Any notion that Chris was released from our football team due to his stance on marriage equality is entirely inaccurate and inconsistent with team policy. Chris was released strictly based on his football performance. We will have further comment at the appropriate time.”
— The Minnesota Vikings addressing the former punter’s claims in a statement posted on the team’s official site
TheNewEnergyDude
No they won’t. Just saying it because they have to. Then they’ll just wait a while, and “conclude” the allegations are baseless. Who’s kidding who?
Sorry for the cynicism, but c’mon.
Dakotahgeo
If you think for one minute, the whitewash Viking Admins/Coaches are gong to admit wrongdoing, you will be sadly mistaken! Frazier and Pissant what’s his face will deny to their death that they said anything nasty. Another nail in the coffin of unorganized crooked pro sports worlds!
Kangol
Yep, they’ll “investigate” blah blah blah.
Keep on pushing, Kluwe, and thanks so much for being outspoken and brave. You, Brendon Ayanbadejo, and others deserve tremendous praise.
DuMaurier
I’m not quite as sure this won’t lead anywhere, if only because Kluwe says the worst comments came during a team meeting. Since the article appeared, he’s reiterated he has witnesses but doesn’t want to drag them into this unless he “has to”–and he may have to. It’ll be a big dilemma for those he says were present to go against the team and confirm Kluwe’s statement, but I can’t believe they’ll all deny anything happened if they’re put on the spot.
dellisonly
He is a punter. How can he perform poorly? He didn’t make them a laughing stock but their decision to cut him based on his personal beliefs and support of LGBT rights sure is making the club look foolish
KDub
Kluwe’s really starting to give gay activism a bad name. He’s clearly in this for the attention and pats on the back. What’s his excuse for the Raiders passing on him? Where are all the alleged texts from Spielman? Surely one would hold on to those if they thought something wasn’t right. Why didn’t Kluwe ever report anything to Frazier? Just add Kluwe to that “Pants on Fire” list.
Sansacro
@KDub: There’s always one: meaning you. Really, really! Being an openly gay rights support must be such an incredible NFL career booster. Imagine all the money that Kluwe is making on this! Yawn.
KDub
@Sansacro: If being “one” means I don’t feel obligated to share a brain with a bunch of mindless sheep, then I’ll be it proudly. Sorry but I’m not so desperate for acceptance that I’ll support someone whose motives I feel might be less than noble. Why’d Kluwe just keep silent every time Priefer supposedly made all these over-the-top homophobic remarks to him? Seems he didn’t feel the activism (he acts so passionate about every time he sees a chance at some media attention) was worth standing up for until he was let go. If his goal was to promote tolerance in pro sports, him and his ego just royally effed it up. Can’t change much of anything once you get blacklisted.
JayneWebsterras
my friend’s step-sister makes $80 an hour on the internet. She has been out of work for ten months but last month her paycheck was $18452 just working on the internet for a few hours. check it out….. http://iop.li/3fk