ESPN, Holly Robinson Peete Hate Lesbian Lacrosse Players

Photo Credit: Kirby Lee

Oh, the irony of Peete pictured at the NAACP Image Awards (don't get me started on this organization).

Once again, ESPN's show, First Take, is in a controversial whirlwind. This time it involves a female guest-anchor for the day, Holly Robinson Peete. Peete, who has been immersed in sports for the majority of her life, stated an uncultured remark whilst describing her days in college. As Peete discussed her love for sports, the actress addressed her alma mater's (Sarah Lawrence) lack of supremacy, i.e. "lesbian lacrosse team."



Fans and naysayers, alike, have long said that ESPN's First Take purposely embroils itself in questionable debates. I call them debates because that seems to be the premise of the show. However, debates about race are not out of bounds, I do find extensive use of the topic, in addition to other heated topics, to be limiting for the self-proclaimed Worldwide Leader in Sports.

Peete's use of "lesbian lacrosse" is not only offensive, but also derogatory and shameful. Is there something wrong with being gay? Are all female athletes gay? Peete doesn't limit the conversation to lacrosse with her statement. No, she has grouped and labeled every female athlete into one ubiquitous category.

Statements like Peete's are exactly why people, not only athletes, find it hard to come out. Instant backlash and egregious guilt flood peoples' minds. Don't you agree that no one, NO ONE, should be discriminated against for who they are? Acceptance is the first step.

Half-ass apology (below). First Take is disgraceful. I've had enough. It is imperative that the network takes responsibility for its actions.



And, yet again, ESPN's First Take is the most talked about matter at the water cooler.