Though the name of the site implies that we cover all types of pro football, there’s really only one type of pro football. Sure, we use the cover of a broad, non-copyright-infringing domain name to expand beyond the NFL when we feel like it, but those occasions are few, and they usually have at least some connection to the NFL.
This item has no connection to the NFL, apart from perhaps providing guidance to the various NFL front offices on how not to advertise their product.
An ad for the Toronto Argonauts, placed in subway cars and stations, contains the following message: “Home is where the heart is. It’s also where we hurt people.”
The ads will be coming down, after some argued that the copy promotes domestic violence. Said Argonauts V.P. of marketing and communications David Bedford, per CBC.ca (via SportsBusiness Daily): “We didn’t look at it in the context of domestic violence and we probably should have, given that we’ve had a handful of complaints.”
The highest-profile complaint came from Toronto City Council member Michael Layton, who reduced his concerns to writing and sent them to the team. “While I understand the intended meaning, my concern is the unintended consequences,” Layton said in the letter. “In the context of domestic violence, the ad insinuates that domestic violence in the home is acceptable or normal.”
Though some may say that this is an example of political correctness run amok, it makes sense to take down the ads. These kinds of things should never leave room for interpretation, especially if one of the potential interpretations points to a very real problem that is unacceptable in any form.