December 27, 2010
Jeffrey Lurie, Owner
Administration and Staff
Philadelphia Eagles
NovaCare Complex
One NovaCare Way
Philadelphia, PA 19145
Mr. Lurie:
I’m not a person that boycotts against ideals that oppose my values or beliefs; realistically I believe that I am just one person among many and that one less item purchased, or one less gallon of gas used will no more change the tide or ethical standards of a company, person or community than the proverbial drop in a bucket. I do, however, believe in the strength of one voice, raised along with many others against a common wrong.
I, along with many of my friends, will continue to speak aloud our criticism of your choice in hiring Michael Vick as a member of your organization. I have, and will continue to refuse to watch any football game that includes the Eagles team in competition.
Living in the Seattle area, I am not much of an east-coast football fan; however I do enjoy a good game and the Eagles appear to be talented and competitive this season. It is true that your team possesses a number of gifted and capable athletes (according to statistics and media). In the midst of all that talent, however, your organization has chosen economics over ethics, and deals over decency.
You have a convicted criminal in your midst; standing at the helm of your team and commanding that team towards their (apparent) path of playoffs and possibly the Super Bowl. You have accepted a man on your roster that abused, neglected and in many instances killed or was responsible for the death of countless number of dogs. Yes, they were his dogs; yes he served some jail time for his offenses. But his transgressions to society cannot be paid through a small fine, a PSA for PETA and numerous good-will gestures. Those actions are for show and do not reflect the true change in the man.
The nature of a man who would willingly and knowingly be the leader and supporter of the abuse of helpless animals is, in my mind, no more capable of rehabilitation than a child abuser, molester or murderer. Less than two years served for the senseless slaughter of dogs does not provide the remedy or the compensation for his crimes. Yet it is said that he has paid his dues; he should be forgiven and allowed to take his place in society because of his talent, his skills, and his contribution to the game of football.
I wonder if, in the pursuit of winning, the publicity and the celebrity phone calls congratulating you on your forgiveness of this “star”, you have considered the unmistakable message ringing out to football fans, young people and your sponsors: Not only does justice defer to popularity, but crime pays well. Our culture is filled with actors, musical artists, and fame seekers that commit crimes while serving sentences that are far reduced than what “normal” people would have to serve. And they, like your star, return to their lives of fame and fortune amid the cheers and the applause for their gifts. You have perpetuated the myth that consequences are only required to be paid by those who possess the stuff of mere mortals; surely not by individuals of celebrity.
I realize this letter will not persuade you, the public or your fans to alter their views on Mr. Vick or his criminal past. I do hope that the affluence and recognition you receive will be enough to quiet your conscience throughout the remainder of your ownership of the team. This is one football fan that will be changing channels whenever the Eagles are on the field and cheering loudly for ANY team that plays against the Eagles for as long as Michael Vick is a member of your organization.
Sincerely,
Paige Norman
Seattle, Washington
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