Jane,
I read your thoughtful article and felt like if the common man, woman, public official would read and relate to the things you pointed out, we could use the NFL as a vehicle for change when it comes to inter-personal violence! What a cultural sea-change it would be for one of the most brutal but beloved US sporting events to suddenly stand up and speak out on behalf of inter-personal violence? We need a new definition of masculinity, a new common idea of what it means to be a role model, and an acceptance that the sport plays a HUGE role in the culturally acceptable incidence of domestic violence, personal violence, and harmful masculinity messages. It's not JUST the NFL, but the NFL makes a LOT of money off of US citizens who pay homage to their sport and their team! And, if the NFL wants to attract more women to the sport, shouldn't it do more than allow the color pink on the field during the month of October? How about supporting player families in ways that are healing, hopeful, making the players' partners feel that they have value too? I really enjoyed your piece and wish there were more female figure heads in this and many other sports. Valuing women starts at the top, treating your players humanely sends the message that they should be humane to those they value and love too and the message filters down to the sports fan who will in turn begin to understand how violence against those we love is both harmful and unacceptable. I WISH we had some dynamic leadership in the NFL and I hope your article at least points out how far we have to go before our sports heroes and leaders can truly feel proud of the message they convey in every fan's home and life.
Cheers! Brenda