CNN Suspends Roland Martin After Homophobic Tweets


Via Rod 2.0

In the wake of controversy over homophobic tweets during the Superbowl, CNN has decided to suspend contributor Roland Martin. GLAAD and the National Black Justice Coalition have been speaking out against Martin and calling for his resignation. CNN released this statement about the situation.

"Roland Martin’s tweets were regrettable and offensive. Language that demeans is inconsistent with the values and culture of our organization, and is not tolerated. We have been giving careful consideration to this matter, and Roland will not be appearing on our air for the time being.” 

CNN took its time, but it clearly reached a strong decision here. What Martin had tweeted — advocating beatings for men who’d enjoyed the David Beckham underwear ad shown during the Super Bowl plus the same for a New England Patriot clad in a pink suit — was the equivalent of cheerleading for violence against gays."

GLAAD spokesperson Rich Ferraro applauded CNN's decision.

 "CNN today took a strong stand against anti-LGBT violence and language that demeans any community,"  Ferraro said. "Yesterday, Martin also spoke out against anti-LGBT violence. We look forward to hearing from CNN and Roland Martin to discuss how we can work together as allies and achieve our common goal of reducing such violence as well as the language that contributes to it." 

New Jersey-based pastor, gay activist, author and producer Rev. Kevin E. Taylor has a great editorial about Martin and why some black gays defended his tweets. Read it HERE.

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