Essay On Discrimination In Sports

Some people in today’s society believe that discriminatory behaviors are a thing of the past; however, this is not true. Unfortunately, there will be people who blindly discriminate others for the purpose of feeling superior and remain ignorant. One major area that continues to discriminatory opinions is the world of sports, specifically professional sports; however, there are differing opinions on the type of discrimination that is most prevalent. Discrimination based on ethnic background and sexual orientation has been a major problem in society. The sports world is one area that has been impacted by this issue and needs to be solved for athletes of these sports leagues. Kevin B. Blackistone’s article, Cam Newton and the Long History of Double Standards for Black Athletes, talks about the different ways racisms is still a problem in the …show more content…
Blackistone talks about Zach Mettenberger, the current quarterback for the Tennessee Titans, was dismissed from his university in the college for pleading guilty to two misdemeanor counts of sexual battery. According to Blackistone, “Mettenberger was ordered to pay a $2,000 fine and perform community service. Later transferring to another school to restart his own college career,” while Cam Newton, who was caught stealing a student’s laptop while in college had the similar punishment, “Newton was required to attend counseling, write an apology letter and do community service” (Blackistone). Both having to restart their college careers new schools, and thus almost ending their chances of one day playing in the NFL. Another topic Blackistone points out in the racism in sports is with the some of the criticism athletes face because of their celebrations during games after scoring. Cam Newton has been criticized for having an arrogant attitude due to him dancing after scoring or taking pictures on the sideline in the middle of a game. Other NFL