Nike had terminated it's sponsorship contract with Manny Pacquiao after the champion boxer made a remark that people in gay relationships are "worse than animals." Nike cut all ties with Pacquiao and removed all of his merchandise from online stores on Wednesday night. After gaining worldwide criticism, Pacquiao uploaded a video to social media apologizing for what he said. In his video he said, "I'm sorry for hurting people by comparing homosexuals to animals. Please forgive me for those I've hurt. I still stand on my belief that I'm against same-sex marriage because of what the Bible says, but I'm not condemning L.G.B.T. I love you all with the love of the Lord. God bless you all, and I'm praying for you."
Apparently, Pacquiao had gotten himself into trouble on the same topic in 2012. I personally stand behind Nike's decision to terminate Pacquiao's contract. L.G.B.T. already face enough problems, they don't need someone who doesn't know what they're talking about to be calling them "worse than animals." If he would like to play the " he Bible said so" card then go right ahead, I guess he missed the huge message in the Bible saying to accept and love everyone, despite all of their differences and to not condemn people but this is only a major lesson it's trying to teach us. Although he technically apologized I don't find it completely sincere, I think he felt how much this could ruin his reputation worldwide and decided to apologize, not because he wanted to but because he had to to save his reputation. This reminds me distinctly of the insane government worker who refused to give out marriage licenses to gay couples because of her personal religious beliefs. I usually don't care about other people's opinions unless they are dangerously stupid or naive or they hold other people back, Pacquiao is just adding to the problems that they have to overcome. Instead of lessening the already large mountain they have to climb over, he just keeps adding on. I hope Nike will stay strong in its decision.
Sources
Nike, Nike, Nike, just jumped over Pacquiao--WOO
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