Rape, Violence, and the Code

Many universities face increasing stories and cases of rape and violence against women; the NFL is being exposed for its apparent nonchalance toward domestic violence in more than one form.  Part of the NFL solution is to bring in some experts “to help lead and shape the NFL’s policies and programs relating to domestic violence and sexual assault.” Telling people what behaviors will not be tolerated, and all the things you may not do, may be necessary in an emergency, but this is not the best way to proceed. The better way is to teach players what TO do, rather than what not what NOT to do. That better way is to teach players to learn the value and dignity of every human being, and to treat every person with respect. This is a challenge for everyone: to give the same respect we would want to be given to us. Learning to respect the other, especially those with whom we differ, is called “growing up.” The Code says, “I will respect the dignity of every human being and will not be abusive or dehumanizing of another either as an athlete or as a fan.” It’s incumbent on parents, coaches, teachers, and athletes to do more than model respect; character must be taught, just as we teach young people to say “please” and “thank you.”