Do we really think street gangs and white nationalism are comparable?
Perhaps in at least one way:
- The markings they adorn their bodies with are governed under their constitutional rights.
One group wears their markings without issue, without strangers 1000s of miles away making broad proclamations of whether they are suitable to pursue their professions with an employer that shows interest. The other not so much.
And let's not forget the kid has stated (with no evidence to the contrary) that he thought it was a positive message of support to the military of our country, disavowed himself with the current perception/leanings of the group, and that it would be covered. But it's not enough for those in this thread, they've declared it's BS, because they know what this stranger's personal body art means to him - even though they'd never heard of him 10 days ago. And the team owners should have to explain themselves by golly. Oh, and now we hear those voices of support from the teammates of color that have been around him for years - they don't count either because "locker room code". Interesting, I hope those making these points, and these judgments get the same clarity of thought from others when it comes to their own turn in the spotlight.
1) The kid deserves to have his words taken at face value. We all do as Americans, otherwise it's guilty until proven innocent, and as far as I can tell we know that doesn't work.
2) Even if the tattoo was intended to mean what others are insisting it meant despite his explanation, tolerance for others opinions is also supposed to be baked into our country - no matter how disgusting they are. Voltaire for the win: "I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it".
That should be enough. But it isn't. Mainstream media is blasting forward on this kid like he has acknowledge he was scouting hardware stores around Foxboro to look for insurrection supplies. Jamelle Hill, Lisa Guerrero have just stated as fact he is a white supremacist, in spite of his denials. That's the way it goes now - ignore any denial, make assumptions, assign a label, destroy, destroy, destroy. Someone else defends them, attack the defenders the same way. It's beyond pathetic. And yes, demanding the Jewish owner of the team (who has personally led players from all religions/walks of life to join him on pilgrimages to his holy land) provide an explanation as to why it's a good thing to hire a kid who denies being a White Supremacist/Neo-nazi is just mind blowing. Damn, that takes balls. No lack of hubris in this thread, or in our society in general.
And it's not whatabout-ism to ask why one player drafted with body art is being treated differently than other players drafted with body art, when the dividing line appears to be reasons beyond the football field.
Edit: And just out of curiosity, since this kid professed it was intended as a symbol of support for those who've performed military service for our country... Can I get a show of hands... how many of those opting for the tar and feathers in this thread have performed military service? I think it might be illuminating. [If you are/were the spouse/partner of someone while they were serving, that counts in my book.]