Women's Sports Foundation responds to CBS & MSNBC firing of Don Imus
Women's Sports Foundation Founder Billie Jean King:
“Words are powerful and can be hurtful, and over the last two days we have seen that when words are misused they do bring about consequences. The firing of Don Imus by CBS and the decision by MSNBC not to carry his show have restored our faith that both networks have taken steps to do the right thing. There is a fine line between objective media coverage, protection of the media's first amendment rights and the abuse of these privileges; and Don Imus and his show definitely crossed that line and are paying the price. The conversation has now moved to a higher level around decency in race and gender issues. The young women of the Rutgers basketball team and their coach, C. Vivian Stringer, have shown so much class throughout this unfortunate situation, and they, like so many other student-athletes, are excellent examples of how bright the future is for our next generation.”
Women's Sports Foundation President Aimee Mullins:
”We support the decision by CBS and MSNBC to fire Don Imus. After a long history of Don Imus taking cheap shots at women and minorities, CBS and MSNBC have sent a clear message that there is no room for such blatant bigotry on their airwaves. Members of the media must be held to high standards of conduct. They have been given the opportunity to influence millions of people with their words. The Women's Sports Foundation strives for equal and fair media coverage of women in sports, and we are encouraged by the public's response to this outrage. The Foundation also wants to commend C. Vivian Stringer and the Rutgers women's basketball team for their graceful handling of this situation. They are the true champions.”
About the Women's Sports Foundation
Founded in 1974 by Billie Jean King, the Women's Sports Foundation is a national charitable educational organization seeking to advance the lives of girls and women through sports and physical activity. The Foundation's Participation, Education, Advocacy, Research and Leadership Programs are made possible by gifts from individuals, foundations and corporations. For more information, please call the Foundation at (800) 227-3988. You can also visit our Web site at www.WomensSportsFoundation.org.
Contact: Rachel Gary
Women's Sports Foundation
(201) 615-9629
RGary@WomensSportsFoundation.org