Sterling
judgmentally discriminated against minorities—primarily African American’s—by
refusing to rent housing units; paying African Americans significantly less
than Caucasian employees; and intimidating or bullying team players; all of
which has been documented. Broader than the business spectrum and delving into
his personal affairs—he has been married to his wife Rochelle Sterling for over
50 years, and has been involved with his mistress for the past 4 years,
purchasing her a $1.5 million condominium, a Range Rover, 2 Bentley’s and a
Ferrari. Prior to this arrangement, he had extra marital affairs with
different women. All of these facts were of high relevance
when the commissioner decided a suitable punishment. This is an elderly rich
Caucasian man who lacks morals to say the least. Although he is banned from the
NBA for life, he still held primary control as the “owner” of the team until recently. The
$2.5 Million fine is not a substantial amount of money in comparison to his net
worth, which is equivalent to a slap on the wrist.
After
the racist allegations of Donald Sterling, he neither confirmed nor denied the
statements. After an intense investigation, it was found to be Sterling, all
the while. The commissioner decided to ban Sterling from attending any games
for the rest of his life. Let’s think about this. Sterling is 80+ years of age,
how much of a punishment is this? Though, this is more justice than him paying
a sanction, being banned is not extensive enough for the statements made. There
should be an amendment of bylaws in the NBA, for when similar situations arise.
Now he is obligated to sell the team to someone who's values are more aligned with the NBA. He purchased the team at 20 Million, but will be selling for
2 Billion, that is a profit of one billion nine hundred eighty million (yes you read that correctly). This
amount of money is a reward to the reasonable lay person, but in this instance
it does not punish him for his actions instead it gives him more than what he
gained originally.
Some
may argue that these conversations were private and he should not be obligated
to forfeit his property interest in his team. Should the land of the free
restrict free speech of others? Should that rise to the level of taking the
property and liberty of its citizens?
When the effect of his conduct has interfered with his business and the
team as a whole, there’s only one answer and that is that of the affirmative.
The majority of his team (including the coach) is African American, without
them; there is no team and therefore no game, which ultimately alters the game
of basketball. It is morally unfair to ask African Americans to continue to work
for and with him, until HE decides to sell the team (could proceed after death).
He is a self-made billionaire, a retired practicing attorney and businessman.
He feels entitled to his wife, mistresses, the team and attention. There is no
remorse for his actions and thus, the punishment should be more severe than just
the banning. Selling the team is the best alternative solely because the
fraternity of owners do not agree or want to be associated with such a
situation.
Freedom
of speech comes with a price, unfortunately for him it cost him his livelihood. Loose lips sink ships!
Queen Tut
No comments:
Post a Comment