New York Attorney General calls on NFL to take action on allegations of sexism, discrimination against women
NEW YORK - New York's Attorney General Letitia James is calling on the NFL to take action on allegations of sexism and discrimination against women who work for the league.
James sent a letter to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell with five other attorneys general.
James says they have "grave concerns" about recent reports that more than 30 former employees are describing a pervasive culture that includes sexual harassment, targeted retaliation and stereotyping.
James described the workplace as "overly hostile to women."
The letter was sent to Goodell outlining their concerns, which stem from a February report by The New York Times in which more than 30 former employees described experiencing a demoralizing culture. Female staff members said they were forced to watch video obtained by TMZ showing former NFL player Ray Rice knocking his then-fiance uncnscious, with commentary by coworkers that the victim had brought the violence on herself.
The letter also stated:
All of this is entirely unacceptable and potentially unlawful. The NFL must do better - pink jerseys are not a replacement for equal treatment and full inclusion of women in the workplace. Our offices will use the full weight of our authority to investigate and prosecute allegations of harassment, discrimination, or retaliation by employers throughout our states, including at the National Football League.
The NFL has responded, saying:
We share the commitment of the attorneys general to ensuring that all of our workplaces are diverse, inclusive and free from discrimination and harassment. We have made great strides over the years in support of that commitment, but acknowledge that we, like many organizations, have more work to do.