Sample E-mail to SI.com
Paul Fichtenbaum
Managing Editor
SI.com
Dear Mr. Fichtenbaum:
I am writing to thank you for running the February 7 column by Dave Heuschkel on FanNation.com that addressed sexist remarks about NBA referee Violet Palmer. Sports writers play an important role in changing society’s attitudes about issues like gender and race, and I appreciate Mr. Heuschkel’s interest in taking on this issue and your willingness to run the column.
[Signature]
Sample E-mail to the Orlando Magic
Rich DeVos
Owner
Orlando Magic
Dear Mr. DeVos:
I am writing to express concern about comments made by Magic radio commentator Richie Adubato about NBA referee Violet Palmer during the January 27 game between the Magic and Indiana Pacers. I understand from an article by Dave Heuschkel on Sports Illustrated’s FanNation.com blog that Mr. Adubato, in criticizing one of Ms. Palmer’s calls, suggested that she should be coaching in the WNBA.
Obviously, there is nothing wrong with Mr. Adubato criticizing Ms. Palmer’s calls; women referees should be under the same scrutiny as male officiators. But going so far as to question her qualifications to referee in the NBA should be unacceptable. (Mr. Heuschkel notes that comments like this are not made about male referees.) In addition, implying that a woman referee belongs in the WNBA because the standards in that league are lower is an insult to both Ms. Palmer and the WNBA.
I hope that you will communicate to Mr. Adubato and other staff that listeners expect better and that sexist remarks by any staff, on the air or off, are not acceptable.
I appreciate your willingness to consider this request.
[Signature]
