Work Conversation #2
Seems this is becoming a regular thing, me contemplating work conversations long after they’ve occured. Perhaps I’ll make a mental note to do one a week from now on.
Anyway.
Today we were taking about Jason Akermanis getting forced to retire from the Western Bulldogs. I was the only person who supported him, and thought getting the sack was wrong.
All sorts of arguments came about ‘how could I support someone who openly made comment about gays” etc etc etc.
Here’s the thing. I support gay rights and I support a team spirit, but I wholeheartedly support being able to voice your opinion.To me, at the end of the day, all Akker did was voice his opinion. Sure, I dont agree with his opinions, but thats the thing. Their HIS opinions, no one elses. If I mouthed off about a controversial issue, I would expect argument back, but I’d also expect some sort of respect that it’s my opinion.
I want to know how we live in such a society, that people are punished for having thoughts and opinions that differ to others.
My view - a football club is a business just like any other. Him making those comments makes the whole club look bad. Getting rid of him is a business decision, and a smart one at that. As a football player, he’s a role model for SO many young children, and even adults. Him voicing his opinion like that, with no repercussions, leaves the gate open for everyone who admires him to repeat his opinions and fuel the discrimination.
Put it in context, if I was in a workplace and someone yelled out ‘nice tits’ - that’s their opinion, but it also has the ability to make me feel uncomfortable. It’s his opinion, but it’s also inappropriate given the situation. Same aplies with Akker. It’s a time and place issue. Out with the boys for a drink - a couple of comments might be let slide. In a national newspaper - consequences are definitely necessary.
