Letter: Employers have say over workers’ free speech; where’s the NFL?

At a major hospital where I worked we were told that we were not allowed to use the term “Merry Christmas,” not even to our co-workers.

This was an offense subject to discipline. After all, not everyone celebrates and someone may be offended. We shrugged our shoulders and obeyed. This was company time, after all, and not our own, and they had a right to tell us what to say.

So why are NFL players allowed free speech, no matter who gets offended? Is it because they make millions and are not subject to the same workplace rules as the rest of us? Does their ability to chase balls and kick them make them great philosophers? Is the message so important that offending some is acceptable?

I believe that when you are working for someone you need to respect their wishes. If you can’t do that, you need to find another job. The NFL should demand their employees follow certain rules of respect. Free speech is important but it needs to be paid for. Some have paid for it with their lives. These NFL celebs should at least be risking some hefty fines. Then I might actually find some respect for their actions.

Mary Hecox

Edmonds

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