Larry Johnson's agent
‘We know the N-word is unacceptable, that’s not disputable — but faggot?’
SOUNDBITES — “We know the N-word is unacceptable, that’s not disputable — but faggot? I’m learning that there’s a segment of our society that finds it offensive and that it should not be used. I didn’t realize that, but I do know now.” —Peter Schafer, sports agent to “faggot” tweeter and Kansas City Chiefs running back Larry Johnson, documenting his ignorance. (Meanwhile, from the looks of the way TMZ quoted Schafer, he had no problem saying the gay slur “faggot” but abbreviated a racial slur to simply “the N-word.”)
It’s possible he used “the N-word” because just about everyone should know how massively unacceptable it is. If he didn’t know the F-word was unacceptable, he’ll assume most other people don’t either – so he’ll use it to make sure people know which one he’s talking about. Otherwise it could be any of the hundreds of words in the English language that start with “F”.
Maybe Schafer’s making sure he wins that Idiot of Year award they hand out after the Super Bowl, along with the MVP trophy? You never know.
They know it’s unacceptable but it’s part of their little macho act to demonize anyone who doesn’t fit their macho culture. Well, we’ve had enough of it.
What rock has this guy been living under?
Larry Johnson’s father knew it was offensive and I assume he’s much older than this agent.
I don’t think this is Schafer pleading ignorance of how offensive the word is, I think it’s his subtle way of trying to claim it’s not while not landing himself in the same boat as Johnson. The phrasing, like “disputable” and “segment,” make that pretty clear.
I notice that Johnson was not suspended specifically for using a particular word. He was suspended “for conduct deemed ‘detrimental to the team.’” His personal feelings toward a widely hated minority are not the real issue. The issue is that, by his speech, he has drawn bad publicity to the team. That bad publicity will inevitably reduce future revenue, as some number of people will choose not to pay money to watch him play football. It’s not personal. It’s just business.
I am sure that if the owners and managers thought it would generate increased revenue, they would have multiple players and coaches say offensive things about gay people. If it would increase revenue, I am confident the whole league would have a pissing contest to see which team could generate the most publicity for offensive comments.
It is actually very good, that they have realized that such comments do not increase revenue for the team.
The Brits will still say, “Can I bum a fag, love!”
I don’t think this idiot needs anyone “documenting his ignorance”…we totally get it.
“I’m learning that there’s a segment of our society that finds it offensive and that it should not be used. I didn’t realize that, but I do know now.” —Peter Schafer Wow, I don’t expect much when it comes to an agent, but could he be any more disingenuous?
Peter Schafer is just as much a jerk as Larry Johnson.