Disclaimer: The post I am about to share includes some rough language. Some have argued that Kluwe’s language “sets our movement back,” however, I don’t necessarily agree with those views. Kluwe has clearly chosen each and every word and it is clear that he is very authentic in his letter.

In August, Baltimore Ravens linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo spoke out in favor of the Maryland ballot initiative that would legalize gay marriage. State delegate  Emmett C. Burns, Jr. didn’t think this was appropriate. In fact, he wrote a letter to the owner of the Baltimore Ravens expressing this dissatisfaction: “I am requesting that you take the necessary action, as a National Football Franchise Owner, to inhibit such expressions from your employee…”

Late last week, deadspin published a letter written by Minnesota Vikings punter, Chris Kluwe in response to Burns’ letter. Kluwe makes it very clear (with the language to prove it) that Burns is out of touch. The letter opens:

I find it inconceivable that you are an elected official of Maryland’s state government. Your vitriolic hatred and bigotry make me ashamed and disgusted to think that you are in any way responsible for shaping policy at any level.

Kluwe goes on to outline, “in great detail,” how Burns’ views neglect the rights of American citizens. Here’s a small excerpt:

As I suspect you have not read the Constitution, I would like to remind you that the very first, the VERY FIRST Amendment in this founding document deals with the freedom of speech, particularly the abridgment of said freedom. By using your position as an elected official (when referring to your constituents so as to implicitly threaten the Ravens organization) to state that the Ravens should “inhibit such expressions from your employees,” more specifically Brendon Ayanbadejo, not only are you clearly violating the First Amendment, you also come across as a narcissistic fromunda stain.

If you’re looking for a good read (and can stomach some swearing), Kluwe’s letter is a must read.

It concludes with a post script:

P.S. I’ve also been vocal as hell about the issue of gay marriage so you can take your “I know of no other NFL player who has done what Mr. Ayanbadejo is doing” and shove it in your close-minded, totally lacking in empathy piehole and choke on it. Asshole.

Emmett C. Burns’ letter (dated August 29, 2012)
Chris Kluwe’s Letter at deadspin (published September 7, 2012)