As reported here at LGBT Weekly earlier this week, Kobe Bryant was fined $100,000 after directing a homophobic slur at a referee during a recent Lakers game. Yesterday, GLAAD and the LA Lakers joined to issue a statement addressing the sue of anti-gay language in the NBA and announce their commitment to changing such behavior in the future.
“What happened in Tuesday night’s game is not representative of what the Lakers stand for,” Lakers spokesman John Black explained. Black continued, “we want to reaffirm our commitment to al our fans and our appreciation for the support we receive from all segments of society.”
Black also noted the team’s appreciation of GLAAD’s input in determining a solution to the common abuse of anti-gay language in sports and expressed a desire to “help keep language like this out of our game.”
Jarrett Barrios, GLAAD President and spokesperson, added that “in light of this slur, there is a real opportunity to build support for our community and educate fans of Kobe Bryant, the Los Angeles Lakers and the NBA about the use of such words.”
The team may adopt plans similar to those now in place with the New York Yankees to implement a zero-tolerance policy for anti-gay language at home games
