The new NFL season has not even begun And a controversy has already been unleashed that has little to do with sports and much with intolerance. Los Minnesota Vikings, In a firm step towards gender equality and inclusion, They have announced the incorporation of a male animator to their Cheerleaders team, following a trend that, fortunately, is growing in the league. However, the reaction of a part of the fansn has been as virulent as disappointing. In recent days there have been Threats of canceling fertilizers, public complaints and a wave of negative comments on social networksthat have tarnished what should be a celebration of diversity and progress.
The young animator, whose identity has been published on the club's official website, has been the victim of an avalanche of criticism Simply daring to occupy a space that has been monopolized by women for decades.
Paradigm change
Currently, there are already 12 NFL teams that have at least one male animator in their ranks. From the Baltimore Ravens to the New England Patriots, through the Kansas City Chiefs, this movement for inclusion is not a passing fashion, but an answer to a real social demand, as is that sport, in all its forms, reflects the diversity of the world that surrounds it. And yes, that includes allowing men to encourage, that women play and that all identities have their space in the stands, on the benches and on the grass.
The Minnesota Vikings’ defense celebrated a big turnover – by doing a ‘High School Musical’ dance.
The Minnesota reaction, however, has been especially sour. Dozens of fans have threatened to cancel their seasonal fertilizers, some have even requested early reimbursements. Beyond the absurdity of the argument, these attitudes reflect a total lack of understanding of the historical moment in which we live.
American football has historically been one of the most masculinized and change resistant spaces. Therefore, decisions such as that of Minnesota Vikings have even more merit. They are not just hiring an animator; They are sending a social message that shows that everyone has a place in the largest league in the world, that talent has no gender, and that the future of sport is built from inclusion.
