Chris Kluwe, Vikings reach joint settlement
The Minnesota Vikings and former punter Chris Kluwe reached a deal settling their issues regarding him being cut by the NFC North franchise, avoiding a potential lawsuit.
“We appreciate Chris Kluwe’s contributions to the Minnesota Vikings as a player and a member of this organization during his eight seasons in which he established many team records as our punter, and we wish him and his family the best in the future,” Vikings owner Zygi Wilf said. “In regards to this matter, our focus remains on maintaining a culture of tolerance, inclusion and respect, and creating the best workplace environment for our players, coaches and staff.”
“As a family we have long-supported equal rights causes, including marriage equality,” Vikings president Mark Wilf. “We are glad a resolution of this matter has been reached, and we look forward to continuing our efforts to create positive awareness of these issues.”
Added Kluwe: "I’m pleased that the issue has been resolved. I intend to continue to speak out on behalf of marriage equality, and I am pleased to be a part of the impact the Vikings material charitable contributions will have on LGBT and related causes.”
The Vikings said they will continue to provide financial support for human rights and anti-hate causes. The Vikings said they will enhance their sensitivity training policy and emphasized a zero tolerance policy for discrimination or harassment.
“Resolving this matter was not difficult,” retired Judge Rick Solum said.“This resolution joins the Vikings strong track record of workplace diversity and the Wilf family’s significant past support for marriage equality and other diverse causes with Mr. Kluwe’s selfless goals of advancing the protection of gay rights in professional football and LGBT rights in sports generally.”
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Aaron Wilson covers the Ravens for The Baltimore Sun