Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC
The Firm
201-896-4100 info@sh-law.comFirm Insights
Will An Openly Gay NFL Player Be Protected in the Locker Room?
Author: Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC
Date: February 19, 2014
Key Contacts
Back
NFL Player Comes out as Openly Gay
With the news that former Missouri defensive end and current NFL draft prospect, Michael Sam is gay, this upcoming season will see a first – an openly gay NFL player in the locker room. Many coaches and players have come out in support of Sam in recent days, saying that having him in the locker room would be a non-issue and only his performance on the field and as a teammate matters.
However, other anonymous officials have come out and said having Sam in the locker room will be an issue – as it is commonplace for players to use offensive slurs. This could be a major problem if Sam is in the locker room, so is there policy in place that can protect him in such an event?
Workplace Behavior Policy
There is some protection in place, as the NFL has a clear workplace behavior policy, which includes objectives such as:
- Providing a clear definition of sexual harassment and detailed examples of illegal and inappropriate behavior
- Ensuring each member of the NFL fully understands that sexual harassment and discrimination are against the law
- Building awareness of the NFL’s policies on sexual harassment and discrimination
- Providing clear and acceptable workplace-behavior guidelines for all employees
With these policies in place, Sam should have the right to a safe workplace. This is the same issue that came up with the Jonathan Martin-Richie Incognito bullying case as well.
Should Sam feel as though his teammates are making the locker room an abusive workplace, he could seek legal action. However, we are far away from that being reality, as he first needs to be drafted and make a roster. Sam is currently projected to go between the third and fifth rounds of the NFL Draft.
- Industries: Entertainment & Media
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Related Posts
See all
You Just Received a Federal Grand Jury Subpoena in New Jersey: Now What?
Receiving a federal grand jury subpoena is not something most businesses or individuals anticipate. While it can be concerning, a federal grand jury subpoena does not necessarily mean that you are being accused of wrongdoing. It does, however, mean that a federal criminal investigation is underway and that federal prosecutors believe you may possess information […]
Author: George McGowan
Why Every Business Should Conduct an Annual Insurance Coverage Review
Most New Jersey business owners purchase insurance policies, file them away, and assume they are protected if a claim arises. Without a regular insurance coverage review, many companies discover gaps only after a lawsuit, cyberattack, property loss, or other significant event occurs. An annual insurance coverage review can help businesses identify potential risks, ensure their […]
Author: George McGowan
Demand Letters & Cease and Desist Letters: When to Send One (and When Not To)
Businesses and individuals often encounter situations where another party breaches a contract, fails to pay a debt, or continues harmful conduct. In many such disputes, a precisely drafted demand letter or cease-and-desist letter serves as a powerful legal tool. It can frequently resolve the dispute and avoid litigation. While demand or cease-and-desist letters can resolve […]
Author: George McGowan
How to Effectively Use Contracts to Manage Risk
Key provisions in your contracts, including those relating to indemnification, insurance, and defense, are essential to contract risk management. While sometimes considered “boilerplate,” these provisions play a pivotal role when determining which party is responsible for certain costs and liabilities. They must always be negotiated and drafted carefully. Indemnification Clauses Businesses should never overlook the […]
Author: George McGowan
Understanding Portability for Estate and Gift Tax
Portability of estate and gift tax enables a surviving spouse to inherit any unused portion of their deceased spouse’s federal estate and gift tax exemption. So, if one spouse doesn’t utilize their full exemption, the surviving spouse can effectively double their exemption amount with regard to estate tax liability. For married couples, portability offers a […]
Author: Marc J. Comer
Pet Trusts in New Jersey and New York: A Practical Estate Planning Tool
For many of us, pets are more than companions—they are members of the family. Yet they are often overlooked or inadequately provided for when it comes to estate planning. A pet trust offers a legally enforceable way to ensure that your animal continues to receive proper care if you become incapacitated or pass away. As […]
Author: Marc J. Comer
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Sign up to get the latest from our attorneys!
Explore What Matters Most to You.
Consider subscribing to our Firm Insights mailing list by clicking the button below so you can keep up to date with the firm`s latest articles covering various legal topics.
Stay informed and inspired with the latest updates, insights, and events from Scarinci Hollenbeck. Our resource library provides valuable content across a range of categories to keep you connected and ahead of the curve.