Regardless…

I recently contacted American TV Channel ESPN:

Hi,

It appears that Dana Jacobson has been accused on several occasions for ‘hate speech’ against religious groups. Whilst I do not advocate some kind of radical action, I think it is your duty to look seriously into such issues.

As a Muslim I am offended that it is okay for presenters on mainstream television to be slandering any faith or belief. If claims are untrue, make that abundantly clear, otherwise you should take appropriate action.

They responded:

Thank you for writing,

Ms. Jacobson’s inappropriate comments were delivered during a roast for her friends Mike Golic and Mike Greenberg and were in the context of Notre Dame football and its Touchdown Jesus icon. They were wrong and inexcusable, and she was suspended from her duties.

Ms. Jacobson returned to work on January 28 and again offered an apology and asked for forgiveness:

Apology from Dana Jacobson on ESPN’s First Take – 1/28/08:

“Before we do start First Take, there is something that I want to address. There has been a lot of attention surrounding my inappropriate behavior and comments at a roast earlier this month of my friends Mike (Greenberg) and Mike (Golic). I want to once again say how truly sorry I am for my poor choices and bad judgment that night. I have taken responsibility for what I did say and do and realize why it was wrong.

“There are no do-overs in life, so all I can do is what we all do when we make mistakes – learn from them. As a person, and even a broadcaster, I can tell you I have already learned a lot from mine. Several people told me last week mistakes do not define us. It is how we respond to those mistakes that does. I believe that. I hope you can forgive me and allow my future to define me.

“Finally, I want to thank my family, friends, and viewers who have shown me support during this difficult time. Most importantly, ESPN, for its unwavering support and the opportunity to return to this job. The job that I love. Now it is time to get back to that job.”

ESPN met with Christian leaders who, as a result, are now applauding the network for its commitment toward building religious tolerance in the workplace. You can read about the results of those meetings here.

Sincerely,

ESPN Viewer Response

Just thought I’d post it…