NFL player Chris Kluwe attacks Maryland politician Emmett C. Burns Jr in row over same-sex marriage and first amendment rights
Anti-gay marriage politician Emmett C. Burns Jr may have taken on more than he bargained for when he attacked an NFL player for supporting same-sex partnerships.
Baltimore Ravens' linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo is an outspoken advocate of same sex marriage, which was legalized in Maryland earlier this year but faces a ballot in November.
Maryland state house delegate Burns decided he had heard enough and wrote to Ravens owner Steven Bisciotti seeking action against Ayanbadejo:
"I find it inconceivable that one of your players, Mr. Brendon Ayanbadejo would publicly endorse Same-Sex marriage, specifically as a Raven Football player. Many of my constituents and your football supporters are appalled and aghast that a member of the Ravens Football Team would step into this controversial divide and try to sway public opinion one way or the other.
"Many of your fans are opposed to such a view and feel it has no place in a sport that is strictly for pride, entertainment and excitement. I believe Mr. Ayanbadejo should concentrate on football and steer clear of dividing the fan base.
"I am requesting that you take the necessary action, as a National Football League Owner, to inhibit such expressions from your employees and that he be ordered to cease and desist such injurious actions. I know of no other NFL player who has done what Mr. Ayanbadejo is doing."
Now Minnesota Vikings punter Chris Kluwe has expressed his support for his fellow player in language more often heard on an NFL field than in politics:
I find it inconceivable that you are an elected official of Maryland's state government. Your vitriolic hatred and bigotry make me ashamed and disgusted to think that you are in any way responsible for shaping policy at any level. The views you espouse neglect to consider several fundamental key points, which I will outline in great detail (you may want to hire an intern to help you with the longer words)...
...Have you not heard of Kenny Washington? Jackie Robinson? As recently as 1962 the NFL still had segregation, which was only done away with by brave athletes and coaches daring to speak their mind and do the right thing, and you're going to say that political views have "no place in a sport"?...
...I can assure you that gay people getting married will have zero effect on your life. They won't come into your house and steal your children. They won't magically turn you into a lustful cockmonster.
Read the full open letter here.
The Ravens have announced their position: "#Ravens support OLB Brendon Ayanbadejo's First Amendment rights - http://bmob.us/3rv"
Ayanbadejo said on Friday:
"I'd have to thank him [Burns] more than anything for bringing national attention to the issue."