Kluwe Settles With Minnesota Vikings

We've reached a settlement with the Vikings. Terms I can disclose as follows.
— Chris Kluwe (@ChrisWarcraft) August 19, 2014

1. They will donate a substantial amount to five charities, several MN local, over the next five years.
— Chris Kluwe (@ChrisWarcraft) August 19, 2014

2. They are implementing enhanced training within the entire organization, and are committed to a zero tolerance policy on homophobia.
— Chris Kluwe (@ChrisWarcraft) August 19, 2014

3. The Vikings will be working to create a symposium to bring together sports and LBGTQ leaders in order to address this issue in sports.
— Chris Kluwe (@ChrisWarcraft) August 19, 2014

I believe the Vikings are committed to being leaders on the subject of homophobia in sports, and will work to make significant change.
— Chris Kluwe (@ChrisWarcraft) August 19, 2014

Also, I get exactly ZERO dollars from this settlement, so if you sent me a nasty message over the past months, go mainline bleach.
— Chris Kluwe (@ChrisWarcraft) August 19, 2014

MINNESOTA: Vikings Coach Suspended For Anti-Gay Remarks, Kluwe Vindicated

Early this year former Minnesota Vikings punter Chris Kluwe declared that Vikings Special Teams Coach Mike Priefer had called for rounding up all gay people, putting them on an island, and "nuking it until it glows." Kluwe has contended that his departure from the team came, at least in part, because Priefer objected to his nationally famous advocacy for LGBT rights. On Friday, the Vikings announced that their investigation showed that Priefer had indeed made the anti-gay remarks and that he has been suspended for three games. Via CBS Sports:

The Vikings said that three-game suspension could be reduced to two games provided that Priefer "also attend individualized anti-harassment, diversity and sexual-orientation sensitivity training." Priefer also apologized in a statement. "I owe an apology to many people -- the Wilf family, the Minnesota Vikings organization and fans, my family, the LGBT community, Chris Kluwe and anyone else that I offended with my insensitive remark," Priefer said. "I regret what has occurred and what I said. I am extremely sorry but I will learn from this situation and will work on educating others to create more tolerance and respect." The team announced that it would donate $100,000 to LGBT rights charitable and educational organizations.

The Vikings report also contains "negative information" about Kluwe, prompted him to threaten to release more "dirty" stories about the Vikings. He also said that his $10M lawsuit against the team will continue. The Vikings' action against Preifer is being denounced as "homofascism" across Teabagistan.

More from Think Progress:

The Vikings lawyers acknowledge that Kluwe was encouraged by Vikings management to scale back his activism in support of LGBT rights, but insist it was completely unrelated to the substance of his activism. The analysis claims that “players and management were concerned about the distraction that Kluwe’s activism was creating, as opposed to the nature and content of his activism.” Of course, it was the “nature and content of his activism” that ultimately created the “distraction.” It’s hard to image if Kluwe was speaking out to reduce childhood obesity that it would have become an issue.

Although the full investigation has not been released, the Vikings lawyers did make sure to include information that casts Kluwe in a negative light. Specifically, the analysis alleges that Kluwe made crude jokes about the Penn State rape scandal. Kluwe appeared to confirm the allegations were true on Twitter but that the jokes were pervasive throughout the entire team. No one claims Kluwe was fired for the jokes so it’s unclear what relevance they had to the investigation.

Quote Of The Day - Chris Kluwe

"What is the true price of fame? The price of fame is what you risk when you have the platform. As an athlete, a role model for society, people listen to you. As an athlete, when you make a statement, that statement is heard, no matter what that statement is. Speak up for LBGTQ rights, for human rights, for empathy? The world will pay attention, and take notice. Stay silent, keep your head down, count the money and endorsements? The world will pay attention, and take notice. Either way, you're the one who has to live with what you did or didn't do. I hope that athletes speak out at Sochi on LBGTQ issues, even knowing the possible risks that await them.

"I know that it could cost them their livelihoods, their careers, everything they've worked towards. I know that it can lead to recriminations, harsh words from a public who just wants their entertainment, no matter how much blood it's packaged in. I know that it's one of the hardest steps a person can take, and that there is no guarantee of a reward at the end, other than knowing you did the right thing at the right time with nothing to show for it but angry tweets and emails tempered by the messages of support and affection from those in whose lives you made a difference, those currently being abused by the oppressive and ignorant." - Former NFL punter Chris Kluwe, writing for the Guardian.

RELATED: In the above-linked piece, Kluwe opens by slamming Sochi's corporate sponsors. Among his suggested replacement marketing slogans: "Today's refreshing anti-gay beating brought to you by Coca-Cola!"

Chris Kluwe: Instead Of Never Coaching Again, Now I Want Priefer To Get Help

The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports:

In a Tuesday appearance on Fox Sports Live, Kluwe retreated from his original stance on Priefer. While not backing down from what he alleged, Kluwe said, "After thinking about it, after reflecting on it, I don't think an appropriate punishment is if he never coaches again. I think it would be better if he got therapy, if he got counseling, and then a year or two from now, come back into the league as a role model, help out with LGBT groups, and show people that this is an important issue." Those are two very different things, of course -- Kluwe's desire in the Deadspin post vs. what he said Tuesday -- and we're not entirely sure the rabbit can be stuffed back in the hat. That said, the larger issue in play remains whether Priefer said what Kluwe alleges. And that is still playing out.

Chris Kluwe On CNN: I'm Confident The Investigation Will Reveal The Truth

Note that Kluwe is wearing a Principle Six hat.

Chris Kluwe Hires Attorney

Via Minneapolis TV station KARE-11:

Former Minnesota Vikings punter Chris Kluwe has retained Clayton Halunen [LEFT] to represent him during the team's investigation of Kluwe's allegations of homophobic comments by a Vikings coach. Halunen will co-counsel the case with the National Center for Lesbian Rights -- a national advocacy organization dedicated to eliminating bias against the LGBT community. Kluwe says he will fully cooperate with the Vikings' investigation. He says that the hiring of legal counsel should not be read as a signal of intent to file a lawsuit against. "I want the truth to come out from the investigation, not in litigation," says Kluwe via a news release.

The Vikings investigation will be conducted by the former chief justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court. (Tipped by JMG reader Todd)

Chelsea Clinton Cheers Chris Kluwe

Quote Of The Day - Chris Kluwe

"I'm glad they're taking it seriously. This is something I wrote down, because it's what happened to me, and I'm 100 percent confident in what I wrote, and there are witnesses that will back me up. Let the investigation begin." - Chris Kluwe, telling USA Today that he intends to cooperate with the Vikings' investigation to be conducted by the former chief justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court.

Freep This Minnesota Poll

Lower right of this page. (Tipped by JMG reader Richard)

Vikings Hire Former State Supreme Court Justice To Investigate Kluwe's Charges

The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports:

The Vikings have called in former Chief Justice of Minnesota Supreme Court Eric Magnuson and former U.S. Department of Justice Trial Attorney Chris Madel to lead the investigation into former punter Chris Kluwe’s allegations released on Thursday. “It is extremely important for the Vikings organization to react immediately and comprehensively with an independent review of these allegations,” said Vikings Owner Mark Wilf in a press release. Madel led the high-profile investigation of the Fiesta Bowl committee in Phoenix, Ariz. and has been named Minnesota Lawyer’s “Attorney of the Year” for the last three years. The investigation is already underway and will include interviews with current and former members of the Vikings organization.

Facebook Graphic Of The Day

"Just kidding, They don't really exist." (Via Memeographs)

Vikings Kicker: I Stand With The Coaches

"I have been a member of the Minnesota Vikings for 2 years. I want to start off by saying I have the utmost respect for Rick Spielman, Leslie Frazier and Mike Priefer. All three, are good men. I have had countless conversations and interactions with Coach Priefer, and I personally can attest to his integrity and character. His professionalism in the workplace is exemplary, and I firmly believe that my teammates would whole-heartedly agree. The allegations made today are reprehensible and totally not compatible with what Mike Priefer stands for. [snip] In my time here at Minnesota, Rick Spielman and Leslie Frazier have exemplified true leadership. Contrary to Chris’ statements, they have promoted a workplace environment that was conducive for success. At no time did I ever feel suppressed or that I could not be myself.I firmly stand behind Rick Spielman, Leslie Frazier, and Mike Priefer." - Minnesota Vikings kicker Blair Walsh. (Tipped by JMG reader Dwight)

Tweet Of The Day - LZ Granderson

Brendon Ayanbadejo Backs Chris Kluwe

Breitbart Attacks Chris Kluwe

An excerpt: 

What Kluwe fails to grasp, as many in today’s society often do, is that NFL teams are private organizations: as such, they can release an employee for any reason that is not contrary to the law (e.g., race) and is not contractually forbidden. Moreover, the contracts players often sign with the teams include all manner of behavioral clauses, likely including that the player’s actions on-and-off the field not reflect poorly on the team. Oh, and did I mention the players have a very strong union that protects them? Somehow, however, Kluwe wishes for the reader to believe he is a victim of homophobes and cowardly-servants-of-homophoboes who wouldn’t just let-Chris-be-Chris.

Firing Phil Robertson for damaging the brand of his employer? That's an outraaage and a violation of Holy Word of the Baby Jesus. Firing Chris Kluwe for speaking his mind? Why that's just how things work in corporate America! Praise! Glory!

Vikings Coach Mike Priefer: I Vehemently Deny The Charges Made By Chris Kluwe

"I vehemently deny today’s allegations made by Chris Kluwe. I want to be clear that I do not tolerate discrimination of any type and am respectful of all individuals. I personally have gay family members who I love and support just as I do any family member. The primary reason I entered coaching was to affect people in a positive way. As a coach, I have always created an accepting environment for my players, including Chris, and have looked to support them both on and off the field. The comments today have not only attacked my character and insulted my professionalism, but they have also impacted my family. While my career focus is to be a great professional football coach, my number one priority has always been to be a protective husband and father to my wife and children. I will continue to work hard for the Minnesota Vikings, the Wilf family and all of our loyal fans." - Vikings special teams coach Mike Preifer, in a statement published tonight by NBC Sports.

MINNESOTA: Gay State Sen. Scott Dibble Reponds To Chris Kluwe's Charges

"In Chris Kluwe’s eight years with the Vikings, not only was he an outstanding contributor to the team on the field – setting several team records— he was also a tremendous contributor off the field, for his advocacy for freedom and dignity for all Minnesotans. His decision to publicly announce his opposition to the marriage amendment came at a critical time, when many in similar positions of leadership were afraid. His energy and humor helped give momentum to supporters of equality and helped ensure defeat of the marriage amendment. Kluwe’s allegations raise very serious concerns about the culture within the Minnesota Vikings organization. As a business partner of the state of Minnesota, we have strong expectations that the team uphold the values of tolerance and equality that we all share. I am encouraged to some degree by the team's statement in response, but the charges warrant a thorough investigation. If shown to be true, decisive action must be taken. I am pleased to know that team owner Zygi Wilf supports marriage equality, and I hope he will use his position as the head of this organization to foster an atmosphere that allows the Minnesota Vikings to accept and value all of its players and coaches." - Openly gay Minnesota state Sen. Scott Dibble, via press release.

Vikings Respond To Chris Kluwe

Earlier today former Minnesota Vikings punter and LGBT ally Chris Kluwe posted a Deadspin column in which he stated that he believes that he was released by the team because of anti-gay animus. Among Kluwe's charges is that a Vikings coach said this in a team meeting: "We should round up all the gays, send them to an island, and then nuke it until it glows."

The Viking have issued a press release:

The Minnesota Vikings were made aware of Chris Kluwe’s allegations for the first time today. We take them very seriously and will thoroughly review this matter. As an organization, the Vikings consistently strive to create a supportive, respectful and accepting environment for all of our players, coaches and front office personnel. We do not tolerate discrimination at any level. The team has long respected our players’ and associates’ individual rights, and, as Chris specifically stated, Vikings ownership supports and promotes tolerance, including on the subject of marriage equality. Because he was identified with the Vikings, Chris was asked to be respectful while expressing his opinions. Team ownership and management also repeatedly emphasized to Chris that the Vikings would not impinge on his right to express his views. Any notion that Chris was released from our football team due to his stance on marriage equality is entirely inaccurate and inconsistent with team policy. Chris was released strictly based on his football performance. We will have further comment at the appropriate time.

(Tipped by JMG reader Helen)

Chris Kluwe: I Got Fired From The Vikings Because Of My Gay Marriage Activism

"Hello. My name is Chris Kluwe, and for eight years I was the punter for the Minnesota Vikings. In May 2013, the Vikings released me from the team. At the time, quite a few people asked me if I thought it was because of my recent activism for same-sex marriage rights, and I was very careful in how I answered the question. My answer, verbatim, was always, 'I honestly don't know, because I'm not in those meetings with the coaches and administrative people.' This is a true answer. I honestly don't know if my activism was the reason I got fired. However, I'm pretty confident it was. [snip]

"It's my belief, based on everything that happened over the course of 2012, that I was fired by Mike Priefer, a bigot who didn't agree with the cause I was working for, and two cowards, Leslie Frazier and Rick Spielman, both of whom knew I was a good punter and would remain a good punter for the foreseeable future, as my numbers over my eight-year career had shown, but who lacked the fortitude to disagree with Mike Priefer on a touchy subject matter. (Frazier was fired on Monday, at the conclusion of a 5-10-1 season.) One of the main coaching points I've heard throughout my entire life is, 'How you respond to difficult situations defines your character,' and I think it's a good saying. I also think it applies to more than just the players." - Chris Kluwe, writing for Deadspin. I recommend reading the full essay.

UPDATE: Here's an important bit I should have included in the first draft of this post.

As we sat down in our chairs, Mike Priefer, in one of the meanest voices I can ever recall hearing, said: "We should round up all the gays, send them to an island, and then nuke it until it glows." The room grew intensely quiet, and none of the players said a word for the rest of the meeting. The atmosphere was decidedly tense. I had never had an interaction that hostile with any of my teammates on this issue—some didn't agree with me, but our conversations were always civil and respectful. Afterward, several told me that what Mike Priefer had said was "messed up."

Chris Kluwe On Artful Swearing