Many of our Florida readers are fans of the NFL. While most probably cheer for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers or Miami Dolphins, many pay attention to what is going on throughout the league.
Chris Kluwe, a former punter for the Minnesota Vikings, announced that he has reached a settlement with the team regarding a wrongful termination lawsuit.
Under the terms of the settlement, the team will donate money to numerous gay rights-related charities over a period of five years.
Kluwe believes the team released him because he spoke out in support of same-sex marriage. He went on to say, “This will help a lot of people that really do need that help.”
When speaking about team owners, he said he believes they are committed to making things better in this area, adding, “They want to make this a reality where there is no discrimination in sports, there is no homophobia.”
Ultimately, Kluwe’s claim for wrongful dismissal was found to have no merit, according to a lengthy summary of a report that was released by the team. However, Kluwe still managed to achieve a substantial victory for the LGBT community.
Along with the money to be donated, the team must also require all employees to take part in sensitivity training a minimum of four times per year. Additionally, they are going to play host to an event focused on LGBT issues in professional athletics next year.
Everybody has the right to be treated fairly at his or her place of employment, regardless of the size of the company or the industry. In the event that a person feels they have been wrongfully terminated, filing a lawsuit is one way to come to a resolution with the company.
Source: KNOE 8, “Kluwe, Vikings reach settlement to avert lawsuit” Amy Forlita, Aug. 19, 2014
