Journalist sues NFL, claims racial discrimination, cites offensive remarks by Cowboys and Bills owners.
A Former NFL Reporter Files Lawsuit Against the League, Alleging Racial Discrimination
In a bold move, former NFL Network reporter Jim Trotter has taken legal action against his former employer, accusing the league of racial discrimination and a lack of diversity. Trotter, who is black, claims that his contract was not renewed because he challenged commissioner Roger Goodell on the issue.
Trotter’s civil complaint, a 53-page document filed in New York, outlines his allegations against the NFL. He asserts that he lost his job because he repeatedly called out the league for its failure to address long-standing discrimination within coaching ranks, the league office, and the NFL Media newsroom.
The lawsuit claims that Trotter’s treatment is part of a pattern of silencing and retaliating against black men who speak out against such conduct. He also alleges that he witnessed discriminatory and hostile behavior by his employers, including NFL team owners, that went unchecked.
Specifically, Trotter cites comments made by Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and Buffalo Bills owner Terry Pegula. Pegula is accused of saying, “If the Black players don’t like it here, they should go back to Africa and see how bad it is.” Jones allegedly remarked, “If Blacks feel some kind of way, they should buy their own team and hire who they want to hire.”
Both comments were made during the civil unrest of 2020, which had permeated professional sports. However, Pegula has categorically denied the allegation, stating that the statement attributed to him is false and that racism has no place in society. Jones also issued a statement denying Trotter’s allegation, emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusion to him and the NFL.
The NFL itself has challenged Trotter’s claims, stating that while they take his concerns seriously, they strongly dispute his specific allegations. The league attributes Trotter’s departure to a challenging economy and a changing media environment.
Trotter’s lawsuit seeks to hold the NFL accountable for its discriminatory and retaliatory practices and demands that the league comply with the law. Additionally, he is asking the court to monitor the league’s hiring practices.
A week to remember in NFL history pic.twitter.com/ZhgPrs4nRj
— NFL (@NFL) September 9, 2023
This lawsuit serves as a significant challenge to the NFL’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. It remains to be seen how the legal battle will unfold and what impact it will have on the league’s future.
Source: The Western Journal
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