Jul24
NFL Responds to Vick; Nike Needs to Do More
Posted at 11:54 AM | Permalink
| 
Comments (87)
The outcry over Michael Vick's indictment has been enormous, bringing national attention to the horrors inherent in the vicious blood sport he's accused of participating in, and inspiring countless people to speak out against cruelty to animals. Following demonstrations outside the NFL's offices in New York and Falcons HQ in Atlanta, an impassioned letter from Senator John Kerry, and a powerful speech by Senator Robert Byrd in D.C., Commissioner Goodell has finally responded and told Vick not to come to training camp while the NFL reviews his case. This is a step in the direction, but we do need to keep the pressure on the NFL right now to suspend Michael Vick from the team. Given the evidence—rape racks, treadmills, piles of dead animals—no reasonable person would doubt that illegal dogfighting and horrific cruelty to animals have taken place on Michael Vick's property, and that alone—even for those who still believe that Vick was completely oblivious to the major operation that was going on under his nose—is reason enough for Goodell to take strong disciplinary action. You can write to the NFL here.
Now we need to persuade the companies that have yet to address the glaring fact that they are still touting Michael Vick as a poster boy. PETA's letter to Nike, Vick's most prominent sponsor, is available here, and you can contact the company through the form here to ask that they immediately sever ties with Vick in light of these horrific allegations.
PETA will be keeping pressure on the NFL and Nike this week, and we'll keep working to ensure that this issue is treated with the seriousness that it deserves by anyone who continues to try and make money from an association with an alleged torturer.
We are also making certain that everyone has information about exactly what the blood sport of dogfighting means for the animals involved. This PETA PSA, starring heavyweight boxing champion Lamon Brewster has been going out to TV stations around the country all week. If there is a silver lining in this case, it is that the public is now very aware that dogfighting is an issue that needs to be addressed urgently and that strong measures need to be taken to stamp it out forever.
TAGGED:
nike michael vick suspended nfl sponsors
Comments
That's a beautiful PSA from Brewster. I really hope PETA spends less money on childish pranks (can you say manure?) and much much more money on clever and peaceful campaigns like this one.
Hiring famous people to do PSAs and spending the dough to get them on prime time television is a great way to get talked about. I pray that PETA stays controversial, but for better reasons
The real reason I posted today, though, was to say, YOUR NEW FRONT PAGE LOOKS GREAT, PETA! It's sleek and clean, and it's easier to read. LOVE IT!
Posted by: Maya | July 24, 2007 12:43 PM
Im all for the protection of animals but you PETA wierdos need to stay out of football, its like all you do is wine about what other people are doing because your lives are so pathetic. I once heard an animal rights activist say they would rather see a man get killed then a dog??? thats the worst thing i ever heard, and to that person i hope you do get to see a man die, it should be your kid getting malled by a couger! (LONG LIVE MICHEAL VICK)
Posted by: Jake | July 24, 2007 01:11 PM
I'm so worked up over Vick, I feel like I might just explode! For weeks my mind has been racing to come up with an answer as to how society still doesn't see how barbaric dogfighting is. It's illegal in every state, meaning if you do it you will be punished, and the punishment for a crime of this nature is supposed to be having your life RUINED just like the many lives you carelessly tossed away for your own enjoyment! It's the responsibility of everybody around Vick to make sure he knows that his actions won't be tolerated by a civilized society, or are we not a civilized society anymore? Is the law worthless? Have I been lied to all my life, and indeed my actions will go unpunished no matter what I do?
Posted by: Brianna Fritchey | July 24, 2007 01:13 PM
This sorry excuse for a human being must never be allowed to suit-up again for the NFL!! Shame on any fan who continues to support him. I hope all football fans who care for animals will refuse to come to any stadium that allows this "man" on the field. What a statement it would send if stadiums sat at least 50% unoccupied if Michael Vick is expected to be present.
Posted by: Connie Foley | July 24, 2007 01:17 PM
It is Senator Byrd with a "Y" ;)
Posted by: kelly | July 24, 2007 01:21 PM
I think what peta is doing is disgusting.. you guying are clearly out for money and publicity. If you were so concernced about the treament of animals there wouldnt be zoo's or circuses. animals belong in the wild their natural habitats. now you are selling t-shirts trying to eat off of micheal vick. we as humans have no right to try and domesticate an animal.. this is the problem with this country and people like you and your self serving and money agenda driven organization.This organization sucks and needs to be disbanded. Vick has the right to make a living and you are not a judge or a jury.. police use dogs all of the time and expose them to chemicals and drugs that ultimately kill them but do you run after the police about animal cruelty no you dont.. yall are full of shit
Posted by: Dh | July 24, 2007 01:52 PM
Micheal vick hasn't even been found guilty of anything.How would you like it if someone went to your place of employment and demanded you be terminated because of their personal beliefs. you people are crazy
Posted by: perry robertson | July 24, 2007 01:55 PM
I don't know what all the fuss is over EVERYBODY fought dogs or been to a dog fight. This is another way for white folks to attack blacks. I'm from Compton California thats all we saw growing up was dog fights, aint nobody saying shit about all them white folks hunting deer, shooting animals and shit like that, get the fuck over it!!! LEAVE MIKE VICK ALONE!!!
Posted by: Anonymous | July 24, 2007 01:56 PM
Why hasn't PETA gone after ALL 39--ALL THIRTY NINE--United States Congressmen who this year voted against the Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act which was a bill to crack down on the barbaric and inhumane practices of illegal dog fighting and cockfighting? The bill passed in the House by a commanding vote of 368 to 39 and was signed into law this year by President Bush. The bill was advocated by The Humane Society of the United States. The National Sheriffs Association also backed the bill because animal fights spawn narcotics traffic, public corruption, human violence and illegal gambling. YOU SHOULD SINGLE EACH AND EVERY ONE OF THEM OUT BY NAME, STATE, AND CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT and hold them as accountable as Michael Vick.
Posted by: Anonymous | July 24, 2007 02:16 PM
Hi Folks,
Our "friends" at Blockbuster Video carry two films, Ghetto Dawg and Ghetto Dawg 2, Out of the Pit. Let's let them know movies glorifying dog fighting are unacceptable in our communities.
Posted by: Ruth Varner | July 24, 2007 02:28 PM
When you famous the media loves to blow up the whole deal, If you think the Falcons are going to let Vick goto jail you need to think again. R Kelly can urinate on a under age girl and nothing has happend yet. They are going to let Vick play this year and for the next 2 to 3 years we will be waiting to see whats going to happend to him. Something new will pop up and the media will focus on that and Vick and his dog fighting will not be the number 1 topic anymore and vick will keep playing on sundays. Thats the american way
The Media and others are helping his case by showing pictures and videos on every station. Now how can he a fair trial
Posted by: Bohannibal The Great | July 24, 2007 02:39 PM
Good point, Kelly. :)
Posted by: Jack | July 24, 2007 02:40 PM
Hey "Anonymous" (at 1:56pm),
If dog fighting is so acceptable where you come from, then why don't you tell us your real name? What's that? You want to remain "Anonymous" why? Oh, that's right -- because that shit you take part in is ILLEGAL, Dumbass. Now hurry along now or you'll be late for your shift at KFC. Oh, when you learn to read and write properly, you might actually wish to educate yourself as to what PETA is all about (i.e. anti-hunting, as well).
Posted by: VestaGirl | July 24, 2007 02:59 PM
I think Michael Vick should be banned from the game of football and should not be allowed to make money from sponsers supporting him. Michael Vick is no different than any other criminal thug. It is time he is exposed for what he really stands for so the the public can see the truth. I am tired of these so called celebreties be hidden by lies and deceptions of whom the y want people to think they are. Michael Vick is a thug.
Posted by: Michael Dwyer | July 24, 2007 03:00 PM
Apparently the foolish like Dh and Perry Robertson and Jake and anonymous and Bohannibal are too clueless to understand that it WAS all about the money- for Michael Vick!
Vick was running a multi-million dollar operation that didn't pay one cent in taxes.
Not a penny.
So he was cheating people like Dh and Jake and Perry Robertson- and he was laughing about their sorry asses.
He also was cheating people like the "kids" in Compton that he claimed to support, taking away money that would have supported their services and education.
Posted by: kelly | July 24, 2007 03:19 PM
I would just like to say to everyone that has been peotesting Mike Vick I would just like to tell you to back off because in our justice system NO ONE is guilty until proven so and that involves a fair trial to do so. So right now you are trying to ruin the life of an innocent man, so to do yourselves a favor and not look like a bunch of crybaby wimps back down on the innocent Mike Vick before you cause unreversible damage to a man who didnt do ANYTHING WRONG!!!
Posted by: Larry | July 24, 2007 03:26 PM
I have noticed that people who hate PETA and animal advocates have a problem with being able to write proper English. Is there a connection?
As a teacher, all I have to be is accused of something and I am unceremoniously removed from the classroom without pay. You Vick supporters should read the indictment carefully before judging those that want him to be suspended from the team. That nonsense of being innocent until proven guilty has really gotten old. Many guilty people have gotten away with commiting horrible crimes without any punishment or due process.
Vick's case has only been able to bring to the fore the cruelty many animals endure behind closed doors, finally. He is only the tip of the iceberg regarding animal cruelty. PETA does fight against all types of animal cruelty but that doesn't mean mean it makes the papers or maybe you yokels just can't read about PETA's mission.
Posted by: Ana | July 24, 2007 04:01 PM
You people are pathetic. You need to get real jobs. Worrying about dogs and other animals is a waste of time. Do you think its cruel when a snake savagely attacks a baby deer. Who do you complain too then. The king of the jungle? Cant wait to see what he will say. You people are seriously strange and if you were normal you would have normal things to complain about. Go Vick Go
Posted by: Jeffro | July 24, 2007 04:11 PM
This is flat out stupid the man needs to have a living an now you guys are trying to take hes shoe contract away you guys are making some falcon an vick fans very unhappy..
Posted by: jay | July 24, 2007 04:23 PM
First of all Micheal Dwyer PETA is an animal rights orginizaton not the IRS. And anyone whos isn't paying taxes is ok by me. I work for myself, the government gives away so much of my money every year to lazy F*cks who just want to keep popping out kids instead of getting a job. If your worried about tax money there is alot more going on that you should be wining about. Also even if he was part of this, (which he wasnt, he's actually working for a living doing great things) thats no reason to lose his job, ive been to jail and i didnt get fired!
Posted by: Jake | July 24, 2007 04:37 PM
Posting your contempt for Vick here is only preaching to the choir. Post where it will be effective.
NIKE is still supporting Michael Vick
Email CEO of Nike
phk@nike.com
SUBMIT YOUR CONTEMPT (EMAIL AND PHONE)
https://nike-store.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/nike_store.cfg/php/enduser/ask.php
LET NIKE INVESTORS KNOW OF YOUR DISAPPROVAL
http://messages.finance.yahoo.com/mb/NKE
ATLANTA FALCONS - ARTHUR BLANK (OWNER) STILL SUPPORTING VICK
EMAIL Arthur Blank and his foundation
Reggie Roberts - 800-241-3489
Brian Farley (404)-367-2070
grantinquiries@ambfo.com
Call the Falcon's training camp - (770) 965-3115
ENGAGE SPORTS ENTHUSIASTS - YOU HAVE LOTS OF COMPANY HERE
http://www.topix.com/forum/sports
Posted by: coolfusion | July 24, 2007 04:46 PM
I am sure PETA has posted the phone # for Nike, once again here is their #,
1-800-344-6453.
Judith
Posted by: Judith, Freedom Fighter | July 24, 2007 04:56 PM
My mistake micheal that last post was for kelly, even though your opinion is rediculous. do you know how hard it is to become a pro football player, you dont have time to be a "thug" you think he was out gang bangin in highschool, NO he was practicing!
Posted by: Jake | July 24, 2007 05:10 PM
Ana, shouldn't you be teaching. In fact is this what you teach in your school. To look down upon people who have trouble with spelling. In most cases it's not the persons fault they cant spell, but rather the terrible teachers who spend their time posting ridiculous blogs about PETA instead of focusing on the welfare and education of our children. As for the innocent until proven guilty, unfortunately america doesn't work that way and the reason is people like you don't let it and dont want it to. Yes some people have performed terrible acts in society and have been let off without any punishment. What about the ones who sit behind bars for crimes they never committed and are facing the death penalty. If he is facing criminal charges allow the justice system to handle that. Why would anyone want him fired. Its not like he brought pitbulls to the stadium and made all of his fans and other people who went to watch the Falcons watch his cousins dogs fight at the 50 yard line. If you hate Vick that much then send your thoughts to the prosecutor not his boss. You idiot!
Posted by: Jeffro | July 24, 2007 05:40 PM
i just want to say that michael vick has been indicted and not convicted, you are trying to get this guy fired from his job without a conviction, take away all his lively hood with out a conviction. so i guess anyone who has ever been indicted should be fired, lose all their rights, and go to jail before being convicted. if he is guilty then yeah the nfl should suspend him and nike should probably pull his shoes, jerseys. but until can we wait til due process to chastise this guy. i for one won't say anyone is guilty until they are proven guilty beyond a shadow of a doubt and PETA is saying vick is guilty before he has even went to trial, how is that for innocent until proven guilty. not with PETA guilty until proven innocent.
Posted by: shawn | July 24, 2007 05:41 PM
And so Jake admits that he supports Mike Vick....because Jake is a criminal too and feels sympathy for him
Wow! With friends like Jake, Mike Vick doesn't need enemies
Posted by: kelly | July 24, 2007 05:43 PM
Jake,
You come across really well --- a truly inspirational person -- you love cruelty to animals, you can't spell AND you've been to jail! Fantastic! You're my new role model... oh, and I'll have a large side of fries with that! (loser)
Posted by: VestaGirl | July 24, 2007 05:50 PM
Dog fighting is no different than hunting in my opinion. How is shooting a dog different than shooting a deer??? Tell me how that is different? Is killing a dog for sport that much different than killing a deer for sport? I think not, but the latter is socially acceptable since humans use dogs for work and pets, and we don't use deers for anything.
If you want to make Vick out to be a monster, then that's fine, but say that all hunters are monsters. If you don't think that about hunters, then lay off the Vick propoganda.
I know what you are going to say, "We are against hunting too." Then you shouldn't be acting like Vick is the next Charles Manson, you should be treating him like any other hunter, and let the law take it's course; but you guys should drop you moral crusade againt one man... it's hypocritical.
Posted by: P | July 24, 2007 06:13 PM
There we go, lets bring the heat on me, i dont mind i just like how easliy you drop Vick. You probably wont even think about this in 2 weeks. Youll be bitching about the next thing the media tells you too. Go ahead lets rip on Bush now. MINDLESS IDIOTS!
Posted by: Jake | July 24, 2007 06:25 PM
I agree. Jake does seem like somewhat of a lower class uneducated loser who works at mcdonalds who probably dropped out of highschool and got his GED in drug rehab. However, he is focusing on the fact that there is no conviction and all you PETA supporters seem to overlook that. By him putting that he has been in jail has nothing to do with who he is and what he stands for. It means that sometimes people make mistakes but that doesnt mean that they should live the rest of their lives depressed and dwelling on what happened in ones past. Not to mention its not up to you to decide who is guilty and not guilty. Apparently all your job consists of is whining and complaining about how someone else makes their decisions. I hope that you all one day make a some type of mistake that can potentially damage you for the rest of your life. And then you may change your views on this situation If in fact he were found guilty (which nobody knows if he is or not but him) I hope its not because of a bunch of hippies like yourselves persuaded someone to find him that way. It would be a great mistake to wrongfully convict someone who already has money and for PETA to end up with a lawsuit on their hands for defamation. And eventually shut down your whole operation
Posted by: Jeffro | July 24, 2007 06:27 PM
FREE VICK FREE VICK leave him alone its just dog fighting and fuck peta trying to keep the black man down
Posted by: jim | July 24, 2007 06:43 PM
Ana, my mom's a school teacher. I'm happy that you posted your opinion. We needed some level-headedness here.
Hysterical - you're so right about the horrid grammar and spelling mistakes. Combine that with the knee-jerk reactions, curse words and incorrect facts, and we've got ourselves some real prizes here.
I'm sure that neither you nor I would judge someone for getting a few things wrong. I certainly make plenty of mistakes - all the time. But when the same people feel the need to assault everyone around them with insults and degrading taunts, they truly make themselves look like not such great members of society.
Posted by: Maya | July 24, 2007 06:45 PM
Jeffro,
I guess you received Ana's message loud and clear! Surprises me, given that you apparently have little or no formal education. Regarding your attempt to argue a point ... well, that was a big failure, really. Not to mention boring zzzzzzzzzzz. You could apply the same rhetoric to a murderer ... "well, it's not like he made anybody else watch him kill her" or a child molestor, etc. A criminal is a criminal is a criminal. You should know that much -- because apparently you're one, too. While we're here, please look into the concept of using "punctuation". (psst: it's something to do w/grammar). All the best with your dream job at KFC! Now go clean out those toilets! Bye-bye!
Posted by: VestaGirl | July 24, 2007 06:48 PM
I am really fascinated by all the anger Michael Vick's supporters are showing toward those who care about animals and believe they have the right to live their lives out in peace, without being abused. It is not our fault your hero has shown such colossal bad judgement.
Michael Vick was lucky and talented enough to earn millions of dollars playing a game he loved. It is not our fault he was stupid enough to throw everything away over this nonsense. We would all be much happier if your hero didn't abuse animals, kill animals and defraud the IRS.
Dog fighting goes hand in hand with drug dealing and illegal gambling. For the writer who said everyone in his community participated in dog fighting, I feel almost as sorry for you as I do for the dogs. Your life must be very empty and devoid of hope.
Posted by: Kelley | July 24, 2007 06:55 PM
I'd like to address (as some of you have) comments made by a few of the people posting to this.
Yes, Michael Vick is innocent until he is proven guilty. I do think he needs to be suspended until that is decided in a court of law, which the NFL has done.
Jake: I appreciate that you feel protective of Mr. Vick. Unfortunately, whether they like it or not, NFL players are role models. Kids watch them and model their behavior after them. Dogfighting is illegal in all 50 states.
The only thing that your comments show is that you are very angry and no better than the "animal activist".
DH: You obviously do not know much about PETA. They try to advocate for animals in hunting, agriculture, animal testing, zoos, circuses, fighting, etc.; all aspects of animal abuse.
PETA relies on donations. Michael Vick apparently (according to the indictment)used dog-fighting to make money and gain prestige. So, who's the money grubber? So take a reality check, try to inform yourself better and give it another go. OK?
Anonymous: Posting anonymously says all that need be said.
Posted by: Marceles | July 24, 2007 07:01 PM
wow you animal rights people are more retarded then me when im ghost ridin my whip down da block wit all 4 doors open and my ninjas is on the top giggin like they thizzin.
Where were you morons at when this whole dog fighting case first came about??? Wait till they indict him to start attackin him personally and professionally as a human being that is innocent until proven guilty. Must have been some mass chickin f*ing case you were protesting at the time....Who is to even say what is legal and not legal these days cuz aint no one doin right in this country we are all driven by crime and punishment. Look at our President??? He is the biggest f*ing criminal in this country.
Get a life that doesnt consist of complaining and crying like little beitches.
Posted by: Big Herm | July 24, 2007 07:12 PM
Jeffro
The only idiot is YOU! School is out and I teach history not grammar. Unless you are between the ages of 13-21 I wouldn't be teaching adults how to spell and write properly. FYI, humane education is mandated in the state I teach in so there are quite a few teachers that are doing what I do--TEACHING COMPASSION FOR ANIMALS!!! And BTW, I have a great track record with MY students; they pass their required exams and go on to college. They also thank me for teaching them about the status quo of how animals are treated in human society. They connect the animal rights movement with other social movements and how they are all vital.
Your idiotic comment about not publicly having the dogs fight in the stadium is laughable. That's because dog fighting is illegal and is underground, moron. I never said I hated Vick nor have I convicted him; I hate dog fighting and stupidity that you so blatantly express in your comments directed to me. If stupidity were against the law you would be in jail for life.
Posted by: Ana | July 24, 2007 07:13 PM
I used to think PETA was a pretty good organization but I thought the throwing paint on the people that wore fur was a little much. However, this thing with Michael Vick is way over the top. It looks like your stated treatment is for the ethical treatment of animals but not so much people. How can you get a good night sleep knowing you have played a major role in the lynching of a man who thus far has only been accused of a crime? Sure hope you or your loved ones never have to experience this type of treatment. By the way doesn't the NFL play with a leather ball? Aren't you going to protest that too? How about protesting the deaths of the shark whales here in the Georgia Aquarium? My bad they aren't young black guys and those big boys will fight you back. So much for ethical treatment!!
Posted by: FalconFan | July 24, 2007 08:12 PM
Oh, what an... unfortunate comment for our dear Mr. Anonymous. If this is just another way for white people to attack African Americans, why is it that Rev. Al Sharpton is in such opposition to Vick? If you ask me, I'd say it's because he doesn't want jackass criminals like Vick representing the African American race, which is pretty damn smart if you ask me! Now, you seem to think that it's okay to commit a crime just because you want to be a thug, and then you'll want to say that it's the white people that should be held responsible if it ruins your life. That seems a little more than strange to me. Dogfighting is, after all, AGAINST THE LAW IN ALL 50 STATES! And by the way, it says more about you that you think black people are the only ones fighting dogs, it's quite popular with white-supremacist country hicks, too. They like to bring the kiddies along to watch unfortunate dogs rip each other to shreds, it's a great way to teach them how to apply violence to people and animals in their every day lives.
Posted by: Brianna Fritchey | July 24, 2007 08:26 PM
Get rid of VICK. What a pathetic, barbaric individual. Boycott the Falcons, the NFL, Nike, Home Depot (owned by Arthur Blank), and any other money-making business associated with this shameful character.
Posted by: MADDOG | July 24, 2007 08:33 PM
I am disgusted by so many pro - Vick posts here. It's astonishing you all are on the PETA site to begin with. Although , I might say you are working in the right direction but not quite there.
Michael Vick clearly does not have the moral values advanced by the NFL. Immediate suspension should be automatic when any player is indicated for such vicious crimes.
Animals are "thinking," "feeling," and "experiencing" beings. They have basic rights because they have the capacity to suffer. We have a duty to protect those rights. And, prosecute to the fullest, those who abuse animals for any reason. Expel Michael Vick from the NFL. He's no "hero" example for anyone.
If these millionaire spoiled players can not set a good example to the public or the teams they represent they should be fined and released from the sport never to play again. Maybe all pro sport teams need salary caps and should have a code of conduct for their players. If they already have the code then they need to uphold it! If the players are found in violation of being decent and upright they should be fired. Dogfighting is a classless, heartless sport that makes human beings look more like beasts than the animals themselves. Dogs bred to fight and kill ..... will kill more than just other dogs.
Posted by: LeahB | July 24, 2007 09:44 PM
Jake, you know what? It's little kids like you that need to butt out of this and go work you shift at Convance or KFC or whaterver shitty place you work at the doesent care about animal welfare. Dog fighting is wrong. And who gives a rats rear if NFL loses a couple thousand bucks and a couple games from suspending Vick. It won't hurt them much. Life is not football, sorry kid. Unless you like getting slammed get the hell out of here. BTW its spelt whine not wime. Are you a drug adicted acholholic?
Posted by: Mackenzie | July 25, 2007 12:11 AM
No Jeffro, you are pathetic. Humans should not be abusing and torturing animals and I want the laws stricter against anyone abusing them. I hope these people go to jail for a long time, Vick included.
Posted by: Valerie | July 25, 2007 09:53 AM
This message is directed to all of the people criticising animal lovers and PETA supporters for "wasting their time writing blogs and comments." You took the time to come to this site and write your own comment, so how are you any different. We are all commenting on someone who is supposed to be a role model for young people and who is involved in illegal activities. You, however, are criticizing people who's only crime is wanting fair treatment for animals. Perhaps you should consider your own actions before chastising others. Thank you to all of you who care enough to write emails and letters on behalf of the animals without voices.
Posted by: Sarah | July 25, 2007 10:10 AM
I feel that what vick was involved in was not right, but I also see again the racism that will never end in this country. He's still a human being, and I feel no animal is important than a human. I can remember the countless times athletic black people were referred to as animals in a very degrading way, and still to this day. So, when I see the vigor this organization is pursuing to destroy a human being career, I wonder where were all you people, during the terrible times of SLAVERY, oh, my bad different kind of animal huh? you people suck!
Posted by: KS | July 25, 2007 10:57 AM
jeffro,
it's people like you who make me doubt in the justice of your country - and why we europeans make us our own thoughts!!!
i ask myself if this vick rascal ever shall be punished for his deliquency! but it seams that uptil now overthere racism is in!
Posted by: Sacred Cause | July 25, 2007 11:30 AM
Mike Vick will suit up again in the NFL because he is a GREAT player! I would still take him on my team. PETA needs to stop convicting people before the judiscial system does. PETA blows everything out-of-proportion!!! Get a life!
Posted by: BlackPanther | July 25, 2007 11:34 AM
I like how all the people supporting this Vick IDIOT are posting anonymously. Way to stand up for your beliefs. Now, why is Vick an idiot you may ask? How can you even try to deny that you were not involved in dog fighting when dead dogs and dog-fighting traning equipment are found on your property? Come on people, stop defending cruelty and wake up. It's the year 2007, there are much more entertaining and productive things to do with your time that don't cause pain to living creatures (for all you morons who think I only mean animals, living creatures includes people too).
Posted by: jenna | July 25, 2007 11:35 AM
Suspend Vick, take away his Nike endorsement, boycott Nike, and then maybe...throw him in a ring with 5 hungry Pit Bulls. USA culture has devolved to it's lowest point. White people have Lindsay Lohan, Paris Hilton, Britney Spears to idolize, and Black people have Crap/Rap, 50 Cent, and other Gun Molls. And we wonder why the USA is the laughing stock of the world. I am sick and tired of hearing whining "Alternative" rockers, and seeing sideways baseball hats and the cracks of your asses. Meanwhile, the leaders of our country are gunning for Pakistan and Iran. It is ALL connected....Hunting, Dog Fighting, Eating Meat, Violent Sports, Cruelty, Militarization, War, and Crime.
Posted by: Green Menace | July 25, 2007 12:22 PM
you people suck at life. try and take away the rich black man's endorsements because he is "accused" of a vicious crime. I hate to throw the race card in there but I dont see any rich white people running into these problems..ex: Michael Jackson(yes he was once black) Kobe Bryant etc....im not even black and I find this sheit f*ing redicilous. Where were you sign waiving chicken f*ckers when these allegations first came about? Sure as hell werent protesting then and why? Because there was no strong case on Michael Vick at the time? The only difference now is that he has been indicted...still innocent. Vick brushin this sheit off like dirt off his shoulder slidin into third on you nerds. I think Im a have a nice Juicy Steak tonight for dinner then im a strap on my coke-white Nike's and jump in my all leather expedition and slide out lookin to kill some pussy cat. I think I will borrow my homies Authentic Mike Vick jersey for the occasion. Put it on your mouth you bucket head beezies.
Posted by: Big Herm | July 25, 2007 12:31 PM
I think everyone is just fighting each other on this board. All race issues aside- if something is ILLEGAL, then it is. many white men fight dogs and it doesn't make it any more correct than when a black or mexican or whoever does it. Second, who cares about spelling??I have three degrees and still mess up typing. ALL that matters is people are trying to do something about what they believe in. And the people saying that its wrong to convict him, um... why are you even on the PETA web site??thats like a black panther going to a KKK meeting to "hang out". If you don'tthink he should be charged, well, go fight for him at the training camp just like the other side is doing. Everyone has their own opinion but the law is the law! Just like if Michael Vick would have murdered a family member of yours. would you then not jump to a conclusion if they had eveidence?But wait... what about innocent until proven guilty? Dog fighting, murder..., both are illegal and should be treated the same. If he had all this money from his "talent" why then was he wasting time killing dogs?
Posted by: Elizabeth | July 25, 2007 01:45 PM
Jeffro
1. School is out.
2. I teach History not English Grammar; also my students are between the ages of 13-21.
3. Humane Education is mandated in my state so there are many teachers teaching compassion for animals. My students greatly enjoy learning ways to treat animals with kindmess, love and respect. The animals rights movement is another social movement studied in history; students display great interest in AR.
4. I wrote to all pertinent people about the Vick case.
5. I don't hate Vick, but I do hate injustice and cruelty to animals.
6. Resorting to name-calling is very juvenile and counter-productive. Instead of resorting to vile, inaccurate diatribes against me go out and do something positive.
Posted by: Ana | July 25, 2007 03:08 PM
Ana, you seriously have major issues. Did you read what you wrote? Did you by any chance watch a video of how these poor dogs are killed? Probably not from reading your post. You are as evil and that SOB Micheal Vick, go burn in hell bitch!
Posted by: Ivana | July 25, 2007 03:10 PM
blah, blah, blah - he is guilty and we all know it. The only reason he is "devastated" is because he got caught. I say throw him a ring with one of his surviving dogs.
Posted by: Kathy Garrey | July 25, 2007 04:31 PM
What happened to innocent til proven guilty? Your organization could ultimately be responsible for the destruction of an innocent man's career. Without hearing a verdict & substantial evidence to PROVE his guilt, your organization is pushing for the suspension & essentially a conviction of what may be an innocent man. If i lived in a home owned by my parents and was conducting illegal activity, I certainly hope my parents would not be held responsible for my behavior. America, I am a SINGLE WHITE FEMALE and pray that Vick has the right to a fair trial. It makes me sick to think that we still have people in this country that do not want to see a SUPERSTAR QB who is black and are ultimately making this a racial issue as well.
Posted by: Tracy | July 25, 2007 05:16 PM
Ana I think you should worry more about the facts and since you are a teacher you should use those in your arguments. One is that he hasnt been proven guilty. So he is probably out eating a nice Juicy steak topped with a chicken ceaser salad in his patent leather boots made from real raw hide and cruisin around atlanta during his free vacation courteous of PETA. As for Vesta Girl. I wasnt even talking to you but since we have started this debate Im going to safely assume that you dont even have a job. And if I did work at KFC which was I beleive exactly what you said to Jake it would be becuase I have more important things in life like bills and putting animals on the table for my family to eat and a dinner discussion of what PETA would think if they were there watching me eat it. So in regards to that you claims are ridiculous just as your PETARDED way of life
Posted by: Jeffro | July 25, 2007 05:46 PM
FalconFan, I couldn't have said it better. Thank you. I became interested in PETA at 15 years old when I became a vegetarian. They were the only organization that were compassionate with all animals, even "lowly" crabs and snakes.
Unfortunately they gave themselves a bad name when their main strategy was assault and namecalling.
I second your plea to have PETA tell about the shark deaths at the Georgia Aquarium. Cephalopods, sharks and other ocean animals are recently found to be highly intelligent, and they don't get enough press.
Enough with the dogfighting. It's front and center in the media now. Keep us up to speed, keep protesting, but can we move on to the other 800 billion victimized animals in the world now? They need our help.
Posted by: Maya | July 25, 2007 05:59 PM
Ivana
Get a grip! I know what I wrote, you obviously don't understand. Calling me names and wishing me evil is really dumb. I have watched all of the videos so don't judge me. Hating is negative like you and your comments.
I was at the morning protest last week in front of the NFL office and was at Niketown this morning because I want justice for the tortured dogs.
Writing vile diatribes against me and others and resorting to name calling is counter productive and juvenile. When you write like this on a PETA blog you make it easier for others to ridicule animal advocates. They love people like you!
Posted by: Ana | July 25, 2007 06:50 PM
Ivana
Read all of my previous posts before writing nonsense and nasty comments.
Maya
Thank you for your kind words. I,like you, am astounded by all of the vile comments thrust at animal advocates. And, yes, we all make mistakes, but at least some of us are trying to write rationally. The only way to make positive changes for animals is by conducting a positive dialogue with others who don't quite get the concept that compassion for animals is a noble gesture for humans to aspire to. Some of these hateful comments towards animal advocates are juvenile and serve no purpose.
Posted by: Ana | July 25, 2007 07:03 PM
Michael Vick's abominable behaviour, the underwriting of and partaking in organized *dogfighting* is a horrific example of utter cruelty & inhumanity. Vick's actions should not simply be dismissed as poor judgement on his part. Indeed, to derive money & pleasure from the participation in repugnant acts of animal torture & cruelty, is woefully unbecoming of a sportsman.
If guilty, this 'man' - Michael Vick - should be immediately & permanently suspended from the NFL, so that a strong & very clear message is sent to all fans - particularly our kids who admire and look-up to stinkin' rich, superstar players like Vick - that NFL management regards the cruel & unethical torture & abuse of animals, by any of its members, to be intolerable, and unbecoming of a true sportsman.
Michael Vick is a disgrace to the NFL, sport in general... and perhaps even humanity
He should be fired from the NFL, simple as that, and be made an example of. To NOT do something would definitely be sending the wrong message to fans of the NFL, and sport in general. Any player, like Michael Vick, who is performing on the world stage, and (once) admired by many, has a duty to to conduct himself in an ethical manner... Vick has betrayed our admiration. He is not a man I want my kids looking up to, in any capacity. He's a sociopath and a coward.
As an avid NFL fan, I'm asking you to please do the right thing, get rid of Vick, the NFL can do MUCH better than hiring the likes him... i should hope!
Sincerely / f
Posted by: francis gerard | July 25, 2007 08:00 PM
You know, even if we really pretended and could say that Mike Vick didn't actually participate in the dog fighting activities, he still owned the property, and is still responsible for what happens there. He would be expected to ensure that nothing untoward was happening, and if he discovered that "someone" was doing something illegal, he would be expected to intervene immediately, to ensure that nothing else happened. He simply cannot say "But I didn't know...". And if he "really" wasn't participating in the dog fights but knew that someone else was, well isn't that a little thing called "conspiracy" to commit a crime????
And for all of you who seem to think that PETA just dreamed up the idea to protest against Vick "all of a sudden", check out the PETA files archives (sometime earlier this Spring I believe). They have been talking about the Vick thing for several months, but of course they could not go forward with any formal protests without this latest development (ie: an indictment).
Here is a little summary that I think will be helpful:
What the Mike Vick protests are NOT about:
1. race
2. celebrities
3. rich people
4. ruining someone's career
What the Mike Vick protests ARE about:
1. animal abuse
2. animal abuse
3. animal abuse
4. animal abuse
Posted by: Michele | July 26, 2007 12:10 AM
Re: Micheal Vick
Disclaimer: This is in NO WAY intended to make fun of or take lightly the horror of the recent Vick controversy. Only an opportunity to channel my utter disgust, anger, and sorrow.
This guy was my homeboy. We're from the same town, followed his (and Marcus') career from Warwick High School (literally less than 2 miles from my then-home) til now (this time it's not Marcus who really messed up). Saw him in the Norfolk airport earlier this year & he was gracious & kind. He was my hero & could do NO wrong no matter what BS controversy surrounded him...I would defend him (rightly or wrongly). Until now.
Listed below are possible nicknames for any future teams employing him (doubt that-his career is OVER as he knows it).
Please allow me this 1 post to vent:
Revenge is K-9!
Sons of Bitches!
PA-role Models
On tha road(kill) again
Fight Knights
Hall of Blamers
#1 Draft Prick
Animal Fights Activist
DogChain of Fools
Prison-House Blues Brothas
Prison Terms of Endearment
Indictments For Dummies
Barkin' Up the wrong League
League of their bone
FreedomLESS Fighters
Animal Lovers of Abuse
Model Prisoner of own stupidity
Drive me to THINK!
Buns of Steel bars
VICKtory is Slime!
QuaterbackLESS CONVicks
Free Agent Provocateurs
A Home fit for a STING
VICKtomless Prime
Vick's Vapor blood
Michelectrodes
rePETA Offenders
Hey, Mike-perhaps if you (rhymes with) Vicked their balls instead of killing the ones who underperformed (were you projecting there just a bit?), they might have done a whole lot better! Don't worry, you'll get lots of practice soon. This is one time our tax dollars will be well spent in the criminal justice system.
Thank you guys for the forum and allowing me to vent my anger & utter disgust at him & what he did to those precious, innocent animals!
G-d bless you for all your great work!
Blessings to you all,
Chris Hill
Posted by: Chris Hill | July 26, 2007 12:54 AM
I find it interesting that there are so may comments on this site defending Vick & bashing Peta? These people know who you are. Why are you on a site for that advocates respect animals? This proves your own internal knowing that this man guilty and what he did was inhumane. This man regardless if stardom should be put to death or better yet put in a ring with some tough Pitbulls who cna have a little rough fun with him. A man who needs to beat a dog to to boost his own pathetic ego needs a little wake up call! His time will come... KARMA
Posted by: Carol | July 26, 2007 01:19 AM
You know what they say,
" YOU CAN BRING A MAN OUT
OF THE GHETTO
BUT YOU CAN'T BRING THE
GHETTO OUT OF THE MAN!
Posted by: jen | July 26, 2007 03:40 AM
Hey Jake, you may want to get an actual education and learn to spell. It is clear that people like you are part of the problem and not the solution.
Posted by: Heather | July 26, 2007 09:15 AM
Tracy,
This is not a racial issue. Let's talk straight. You are absolutely right , due process is needed. Since I am not the government I don't have to follow that logic since these below statements are so prevalent. It's a fact that Michael Vick owns the home. It's a fact that 54 dogs were pulled with marks that were consistent with dog fighting. It’s a fact that corpses were also found. It's a fact that many loads of dog fighting equipment was also pulled from the home. No matter if Vick was the ring leader or not, we as human beings have the moral obligation to report malice doings to animals to the authorities. Why did Vick never report this over the past few years if he was not going along with it? The answer is clear Tracy. He WAS involved and was getting paid by these death matches.
Elizabeth - I agree with your post. What are these people doing here? To fight just like their "golden cow" VICK has taught them. "Dogs bred to fight and kill ..... will kill more than just other dogs."
Posted by: LeahB | July 26, 2007 09:39 AM
vick is innocent until guility yall PETA people need a life yall worrying about dogs but what about the dogs that kill people
Posted by: Atl | July 26, 2007 10:45 AM
Ive owned dogs, Ive owned pitbulls in the past. They are great animals to own. I am from VA where Vick is From. Blacks and Whites see dogs differnetly. Whites sleep with there dogs carry them in purses let them ride in there laps when there driving. To a black person a dog is a damn dog something we own, property. Yeah we feel bad when they die but damn life goes on. What happened to innocent until proven guilty. We have a judicial system people. Peta has freedom of speech right. Let this man have his trial before you convict him!!!!
Posted by: Dawayne L | July 26, 2007 11:52 AM
If Vick is actually guilty of the crimes that are alledged against him then he should be punished. Fined maybe but not jail time. They are of course ONLY dogs. It's not like we don't have 40 or 50 million of them in the U.S. They are NOT people.
Posted by: Russ | July 26, 2007 12:03 PM
LAMON BREWSTER NEEDS TO READ HIS HISTORY, AND SEE PITS WERE AND HAVE ALWAYS BEEN BRED TO FIGHT AND KILL, ITS IN THE DNA OF THE KIND OF DOG, Y U THNK SOOOO MANY STATES HAVE LAWS BANNING PITTBULLS?? CUZ THEY R SO UNPRDICTABLE NO MATTER HOW GOOD OF A TRIANER U R ANYTHNG CAN BRING THAT INSTINCT OUT AT ANY MOMENT, DOG FIGHTING IS JUST LETTIN THEM DO WHAT THEY WERE MENT TO DO FOR CENTURIES AND CENTURIES STATRED IN OTHER COUNTRIES WAY BACK WHEN LOOK IT UP AND U WILL SEE.
Posted by: Anonymous | July 26, 2007 02:49 PM
WOW! How many of you anti Vick people shop with Asian countries, who citizens eat cats and dogs daily? I have lived in Atlanta, GA since I was a child and this is the first time I have saw peta protest in the Atl. I am a 27 year old black male who supports Vick. All day long, I have heard people say that Vick supporters are using the race card. I say no, cause if this were happening to John Rocker, the ex pitcher for the Atlanta Braves, I would support him. The problem is people are picking their battles, I have friends who hunt deer and I never heard or saw peta protesting at the state capital or places where people hunt, why? Just something for you'll to think about.
Posted by: Clifton | July 26, 2007 03:59 PM
Shut the fuck up all of you-- I'll tell u what's what...
First of all-- people on here ridiculing others for their spelling? i mean ridicule the dumbass sentiments, but the spelling?? grow the fuck up-- the public education system in this country is busted... not to mention society itself...
innocent until proven guilty. period. if michael vick is not convicted of a crime, he should not be made to suffer ANY negative effect from this...
that having been said, and this is coming from a die-hard animal lover, if he is found guilty of nothing more than dog-fighting, he should suffer SOME negative effect... it is a crime and he will have to pay the penalty, but i think after he has paid his 'debt' he should not have to contend with a LIFETIME ban from the game...
HOWEVER, if he is convicted of any/all of the more extremely heinous acts he is accused of... the drowing, electrocuting, bludgeoning, etc... then, in my opinion they could execute him for all i care... and they ought to throw the book at him for all it is worth... maximum jail term, lifetime ban from nfl, loss of all endorsements... hopefully he would be broke and ruined for life...
just for the record, so noone gets it twisted... i feel bush and cheney and their crew, once convicted of any of the dozens of acts of treason they have comitted, ought to be hung until dead...
we either have rule of law or we don't...
final note... dogs are domesticated... they aren't wolves... dogs and men have been living in symbiosis for millions of years...
what does a dog want? to protect u from intruders, bark if they smell smoke in the house while u are sleeping? a little food and clean water, and a rub on the belly??
only a sick and twsietd motherfucker would CHOOSE to hurt a dog for no reason...
so get over it with the 'Go Vick Go' bullshit... all black people aren't good... if he was smashing dogs heads in and drowning them, it could only have been for the 'fun' of it... if that is true, i'll ENJOY watching his life implode...
if he is proven guilty, i hope they kill him.
Posted by: seth | July 26, 2007 04:03 PM
and WHAT THE HELL IS ALL THIS RACE BUSINESS??
no doubt this is a racist country-- but dog fighting?? u vick supporters are going to find out that black folks like dogs too...
someone earlier mad ethe point that white supremicist/kkk types love their dog fights too...
dog fighting ony appeals to low-life ignorant people... black and white, yellow, red, whatever...
and some other bullshit about pits are meant to fight?? they were bred to fight... that's not the same thing...
evil white motherfuckers BRED black ppl in this country for all sorts of sordid purposes... so maybe we should just follow the recipe they laid down, cause, what the hell, it's been around for a few centuries, why change now??
THERE ARE TWO ISSUES at play here...
dog fighting is disgusting in my opinion, but as some have said let's not forget that we are in the process of murdering PEOPLE in the uncountable thousands in iraq... bush and cheney are guilty of murdering each and every american soldier sent to iraq that has been killed...
the difference here, the issue that for me elevates this from dog-fightiing, fucked up as that is, to the PURELY SADISTIC behavior that was alledged...
the shit he is accused of has nothing to do with dog fighting is part of our culture, or my dog doesn't sleep in my bed with me, or whatever...
sure, we don't all feel about animals the way i do-- ok... but these allegations are somehting else entirely... and if true, i hope they feed him to the dogs...
Posted by: seth | July 26, 2007 04:24 PM
Slavery was legal over the past 2 centuries...that's what used to be...shall we go back to that prehistoric and barbaric notion???
Sorry to break it to you hopefuls but Vick's NFL career is over whether or not he is found guilty, perception is reality.
America spends billions per year on the pet industry, those same animal lovers are football lovers as well...DO THE MATH EINSTEINS.
Posted by: Nikas | July 26, 2007 04:56 PM
Ladies and gentleman. During my lunch break here at work I have read each of the comments posted by all of you. After reading the indictment I can certainly understand the anger and disgust displayed by the participants here... Being a dog lover myself I certainly feel all of you. However, as many have stated before me, let us allow the court to complete their process before passing judgement. If each of you truly have open and caring hearts, you should all know that it is wrong to pass judgement on folks. In this case, especially since nothing has been finalized. How "caring" and "just" can the folks involved with this organization be, when comments like these are being thrown around in such a way?? Don't forget we must treat humans properly as well as animals. You won't get a pass for putting animals on a pedistal, and treating your fellow brother or sister like dirt. I know the words i have said will most likely go ignored, but I figured i would do my part to try and make a difference. Best of luck to your organization.....
Posted by: Adrion | July 26, 2007 05:02 PM
Screw you people who think PETA is out for publicity. They have saved thousands of animals. I LOVE how PETA is reacting to the Vick dog fighting case. I think that we all should do all we can to make sure Vick and everyone involved in this case should get the maximum sentence. What they did was extremely cruel and completely unacceptable. I hope Vick has to go to jail for 6 years and never gets to play football again. I could careless if he's a good quarterback or not. Good job PETA and keep up the hard work.
Posted by: LeeAnn | July 26, 2007 05:17 PM
Hey Jake-I am not a weirdo and I support Peta's mission in encouraging Vick to get fired and lose his Nike contract. I can't stop thinking about this case. it makes me sick to my stomach and I really hope justice is served. I read the indictment and it really is unbelievable ANYONE can support this creep.
Posted by: am | July 26, 2007 05:35 PM
To the guy who wrote:
"I don't know what all the fuss is over EVERYBODY fought dogs or been to a dog fight. This is another way for white folks to attack blacks. I'm from Compton California thats all we saw growing up was dog fights, aint nobody saying shit about all them white folks hunting deer, shooting animals and shit like that, get the fuck over it!!! LEAVE MIKE VICK ALONE!!!"
First of all, I've never seen a dog fight. The purpose of a dog fight is to watch two animals fight to the death. The purpose of Deer hunting is to track down and kill an animal to eat it and whatever else there is. You've said you grew up in Compton where all you saw was Dog Fights. It didn't ever cross your mind that it was cruel in the first place?
Leave racism out of this.
I think Micheal Vick needs to have a fair trial and if the evidence shows he is guilty than let him serve his time. If he is not guilty - let him return to the NFL and finish out a wonderful career.
Posted by: Corey | July 26, 2007 05:37 PM
I just like to say, that it is time to wake up to the fact that our society is very violent. Mistreating children every 30 seconds in this Country, mistreating animals I do not know how many and how often but whatever it is it is not acceptable. When I see that people are willing to spend $50 to see a violent and stupid wrestling show. When we look at the violence in video games for our children, the violence in music lyrics, looking at the violent crime rates in our Country and all of this with the bible in hand. What do we expect...lies are an excepted form of communication no one is responsible for anything....it is always the other person or upbringing or whatever.....it is very bad and I hope from the bottom of my heart that we have hit bottom so we can climb out of this hole as a people.
This incident might help people to open their eyes and see and stop believing that all is still milk and honey in this Country.....it is not!
No other so called civilized Nation has as many murders commited and other unspeakable crimes than our Country.....what has happened? And before I forget can we get rid of the NRA while we are at it? Weapons are no means of being a peaceful people!
Posted by: Ille | July 26, 2007 10:40 PM
This is crazy. We have over 3600 troops killed in action in an unjust war perpetuated by the Bush administration and u wackos from PETA are worried about a dog fight. What about the bad food coming in here for human consumption from China? What about the federal debt? What about all the other important issues? You want to make Michael Vick the poster child for dog fighting. This is a distraction. Senator Byrd needs to resign. How could he call this disgusting when he works he has been robbing the American people and in the pocket of the lobbyist. Stop making his an issue for your own personal agenda. Mike Vick is innocent until proven guilty. If someone were guilty it would be Bush and Cheney.
Posted by: John | July 26, 2007 10:41 PM
You guys have lost your minds on this one. Once again you target the biggest name that you can find to help promote your organization. I was reading over half the comments that you guys put up and it's ridiculious, Mike Vick this, Mike Vick that, hey get a freakin clue, there were three or four other individuals involved, but are you'll dragging them through the mud....NO YOUR NOT!! I makes me sick to my stomach that I have to defend your right to free speech if your only going to target the most "visible" person. When you land a contract for $160 million dollars, see how many houses you buy and or give friends or family members, and see if you ever go to that residence and pay a visit. Chances are your not, and if you do decide to go pay a visit, your not going to know what's going on there. So I say, NIKE RELEASE THE SHOW, and LONG LIVE MIKE VICK!!
Posted by: Quinton Russ | July 26, 2007 10:52 PM
ATTENTION, ATTENTION!!!!!!!!!!!
NEWS HERE:
white, brown, blue, green, and black people<
vick the thug probably will be charged with " racketerring" in aug, and that is 20yr max.
plus another 6yrs for animal cruelty.
good luck vick the sick, i ll see u in yr 2034.
after that, i hope u rot in hell :)))))
Posted by: ann | July 27, 2007 03:21 AM
This is in response to a post made by Ana, on July 24, 2007 04:01 PM. It is dissapointing that a post made by a teacher followed such shoddy logic. Yes, if you committed CERTAIN types of crimes, you would likely be removed from the classroom, uncerimoniously. What you failed to mention is why. Children are viewed as unable to protect themselves, especially in a controlled environment such as a classroom, so yes, to knowingly keep them in a classroom setting with a criminal would be inappropriate. You also failed to reflect that that occurance would depend on the type of crime you committed. Convicted of assault, yes you would be let go. Convicted of speeding...hardly. One crime actually relates to your place of employment, the other does not. Vick's accused crime has nothing to do with football, or with Nike selling shoes. Shoddy logic.
I am not a Vick apologist, nor am I a terribly big fan of his. I appreciate a good football player as much as anyone, probably more, but not over the law. In addition, I believe he is likely guilty, and if proven to be so, I feel that he needs a serious and stiff sentence. I am also "pro-animal". But I am VERY much anti-PETA's attempts to bully the Falcons, the NFL, and especially Nike into distancing themselves from Vick...and not only because he hasn't been convicted yet. We live in a free society, as citizens that participate in a Free Market system, and the participation in this system is based on mutual non-coerced consent of the sellers and buyers. If Nike wantes to support an accused felon, or even a convicted felon, that's their (bad) business decision. They'll suffer through their own consequences. To tell them not to legally run their business in the manner that they choose, based on YOUR beliefs, is not your choice to make. There are plenty of people out there who believe in Vick's innocence, and they retain the right to purchase his jersey, to cheer his name, and to support him in any way they choose. You and I may think them to be stupid, but that in no way reduces their right to (legally) be stupid.
Posted by: Chris | July 27, 2007 10:30 PM
Ok, I couldn't let this slide...Ana, calling out Jeffro as juvinile for his name calling, and then ending one of your posts with the following line:
"If stupidity were against the law you would be in jail for life."
Seriously? Very comical.
Posted by: Chris | July 27, 2007 10:52 PM
To Jake and the Like Minded I have this to say: A human being is not a dog, a human being is not a deer, a human being having incest relations is not a human being killing a dog, yeah all of you are definitely on target. A human being can obliterate millions of other human beings, Hitler showed us that that could happen. People killing people happens every day, every hour, probably even less than that, but domesticated animals, you don't see their species killing each other unless it's for survival. A man holding down a defenseless dog's head in the water, watching it squirm, it's legs shaking probably,hearing it's garbled whine, until there's nothing left of that animal but dead weight in his hands, what is that? Well that folks is just part of our peaceable,wonderful human race, dogs aren't humans, they love us when we shouldn't be loved, they trust us when we shouldn't be trusted, their better than us.
Posted by: Colecee | July 29, 2007 05:40 PM
"Innocent until proven guilty" pertains to criminal accusations. It has NO legal bearing on a private employer, such as the NFL, Nike or Reebok, that bases its business judgments on PUBLIC consumption.
Michael Vick is getting his due process alright. How many "average defendants" do you know get one of the country's top criminal defense attorneys? How many get top PR firms working around the clock to soften their hardened images?
Posted by: Jessica | July 31, 2007 02:20 PM
to micheal vick and all those assholes out there who support this so called"sport" just get cancer already and do this planet a favor and DROP DEAD
Posted by: JEREMY AGUILAR | August 28, 2007 07:31 PM