Tony Dungy, a former NFL coach, and current NBC analyst have been caught in a whirlwind of public backlash and criticism after he posted a sarcastic tweet intended as a dig at gender-inclusive bathrooms in school districts. The tweet was thought to be an attack on the transgender community, causing an uproar on social media.
The tweet in question was a response to a Daily Wire video about plans to put menstrual products in boys’ school bathrooms, reading: “That’s nothing. Some school districts are putting litter boxes in the school bathrooms for students who identify as cats. Very important to address every student’s needs.”
Despite the outcry against Dungy, NBC has decided to keep him on the slate for their NFL playoff coverage on Saturday. This isn’t the first time Dungy has found himself at the center of controversy, as he has previously spoken at pro-life rallies and made statements about abortion.
In one such speech, he referenced the cardiac arrest of Damar Hamlin to make a point about abortion, saying: “Every day in this country, innocent lives are at stake. The only difference is they don’t have a name like Damar Hamlin.”
Tony Dungy’s recent tweet and its implications have stirred up a lot of emotions amongst the public. His response wasn’t taken lightly by many, who felt it was a direct attack on the transgender community and questioned his Christian values. NBC’s decision to keep him on the slate for their NFL playoff coverage has been met with criticism, as many believe that his past views on abortion and this current incident should have been taken into account.
This past week I posted a tweet that I subsequently deleted. I issued an apology but not everyone saw it. So I am reposting my apology here. As a Christian I want to be a force for love to everyone. A force for healing and reconciliation-not for animosity. pic.twitter.com/esew5wjUyD
— Tony Dungy (@TonyDungy) January 21, 2023
Despite the backlash and criticism, Dungy has since issued an apology, stating: “As a Christian, I should speak in love and in ways that are caring and helpful. I failed to do that and I am deeply sorry.”
His apology, although too late, serves as an important reminder of the power of social media and being mindful of the impact one’s words can have on others.
Tony Dungy is a righteous & godly man who did nothing wrong. Speaking up for the unborn, and speaking out against the craziness of the alphabet community should not be deemed controversial. In this day & age where good is evil, and evil is good, people do not want to hear the Truth.