The Big 12's Battle Against Hate Speech: Will It End the Cycle of Derogatory Chants at BYU Games?
The Problem:
BYU sports teams are facing a disturbing trend of derogatory chants aimed at their religious affiliation with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In the past year alone, this issue has surfaced at four different Big 12 conference games, including recent incidents at Arizona, Colorado, Cincinnati, and Oklahoma State. But this isn't just a Big 12 problem; it's a reflection of a deeper societal challenge.
The Response:
The Big 12 conference has taken a strong stance, fining Oklahoma State $50,000 and releasing a statement emphasizing their zero-tolerance policy for discriminatory behavior. The Church, which sponsors BYU, has also spoken out, calling for an end to these offensive chants and praising the conference's commitment to unity. But will these measures be enough to break the cycle?
The Complexity:
The issue is complex. While the chants are directed at BYU, they impact the entire Latter-day Saints community. With over 17 million members worldwide, the church is a significant minority group. And yet, as Patrick Q. Mason, a professor of religious studies, points out, bigotry against Latter-day Saints has become an 'acceptable prejudice.' This is partly because many people who engage in these chants have never interacted with church members, making it easier to perpetuate stereotypes and ignorance.
The Human Impact:
The human cost is evident. BYU coach Kevin Young, a Latter-day Saint himself, expressed his concern for his children, who will inevitably hear these chants. He highlights the unnecessary hate and the impact it has on people's beliefs. This isn't just about sports; it's about creating a safe and respectful environment for all.
Controversial Interpretations:
Interestingly, some fans defend the chants, claiming they are directed at officials or other targets. After the Oklahoma State incident, Cowboys fans claimed the chant was 'ref's a Mormon,' and a university investigation supported this. But is this a valid excuse? And how should the conference handle these nuanced situations?
Breaking the Cycle:
The Big 12 is taking action, with public reprimands and fines, as well as private efforts to increase education and consequences. Some schools have taken proactive measures, like pregame announcements and videos promoting sportsmanship. At Texas Tech, coaches from different sports teams have engaged with student sections to encourage respect. These efforts are promising, but the real challenge is changing the culture.
The Role of Allies:
As Professor Mason suggests, minorities need allies. BYU has shown its commitment to allyship by supporting other conference members in times of need. Before a game at Cincinnati, BYU supporters donated 27,000 pounds of food to the school pantry, and before a game with Texas Tech, they raised nearly $175,000 for a team barber's family. These acts of kindness may be the key to breaking down barriers and changing perceptions.
Looking Ahead:
Former BYU player Eric Mika believes that as the conference and the country get to know BYU better, the chants will diminish. But is this optimism well-founded? Can the Big 12 truly break the cycle of derogatory chants, or will it take a broader cultural shift? And what role should fans, schools, and the conference play in this process?
Your Thoughts:
Do you think the Big 12's response is adequate? Are these derogatory chants a symptom of a larger societal issue? How can we, as a society, move beyond these recurring incidents and create a more inclusive environment for all religious groups? Share your thoughts and let's continue the conversation.
