"Homophobic Hardaway"

Listen to these words...

"You know, I hate gay people, so I let it be known. I don't like gay people and I don't like to be around gay people". Tim Hardaway retired NBA player

I was born in 1958. For those of you who are to young or just don't know listen to these words in terms of the American south in 1958.

"You know, I hate niggers, so I let it be known. I don't like negro people and I don't like to be around niggers".

I actually heard a man in Orlando Florida use almost these exact words in front of me in a 7-11 in August 1983 and turn to me and say he did not care if I heard him or not.

Hate is hate. Jews, women, blacks, gays you can substitute almost anything and it still gives birth to hate. I cannot understand being gay, nor the psychology or physiology of it. It is not necessary for me to understand. I accept people for being human beings and I respect them because ALL human beings deserve respect period, end of conversation. Tim Hardaways past generations, and mine as well, fought for equality, fair treatment for all people. Mr. Hardaway words indicate gays in the locker room should be the exception. 200 years of fighting oppression for free speech and treatment allow him to use these words of hate, but what troubles me is the underlining message. You better not be gay in the NBA, and damn sure better not let us know or else. These young men who are setting some of the lowest standards in the history of the NBA are dictating how gay people should be treated. Isn't that ironic? The sports world is full of scandals, steroids, murder, drugs, spouse abuse, weapons and yet a gay athlete has to stay in the closet. This is where they put the foot down! Today's black athletes whom we allow our kids to use as role models should be ashamed of themselves, all the blood, sweat and tears it took to allow them the privilege they are now afforded and this is how they show the appreciation. I guess I'll have to hang my head in shame for them, they certainly won't be doing it themselves.
James