Get Buzzed

We’re all familiar with the notion of “separation of church and state.” Which is to say that government shouldn’t be involved in espousing religious beliefs, rituals or activities.

That’s a good idea as it protects certain freedoms as prescribed by our Constitution.

But what about separation of politics and sports? Around these parts (Phoenix to be specific), that question has been asked a lot lately and usually with voices raised.

“The Suns stink for making this ill-informed move,” wrote one blog commenter in response to the franchise’s position to oppose a new immigration law, “as there is nothing wrong with the law.”

Said another, “Good for Sarver (Suns owner) and his players for having the balls to stand up for what is right.”

The only balls normally associated with the Suns are the bouncing variety, however, after they chose to wear “Los Suns” jerseys in their playoff game against the Spurs, a firestorm of public discussion ensued.

Arizona Republic columnist Dan Bickley, normally stingy with his compliments of local team owners, lauded Sarver, calling his public stance for the new law “a brilliant public relations move that will help soften the national image of Arizona.”

Time will tell about that, however, I agree that the Suns did the right thing in standing up and being counted – even if it meant alienating some of their core fans. And clearly, there are valued season ticket holders among the 70% of respondents in one poll that said they favored the new bill.

The Sunday after the bill was signed into law by Governor Brewer, The Arizona Republic published a rare front-page editorial that lambasted both sides of the legislative aisle, suggesting “Arizona politicians are pandering to public fear. The result is a state law that intimidates Latinos while doing nothing to curb illegal immigration.”

Regardless of where you stand on this issue, it’s laughable to suggest that sports owners and their athletes shouldn’t be involved in public discourse over issues that affect society. I thought these same athletes were supposed to be role models and help influence our youth? Or does that only apply on softer, safer topics like staying in school and avoiding alcohol?

To put things in perspective, Arizona sports franchises – against their desire – have been dragged into the debate by activists that have threatened all sorts of recourse against the teams, and even their leagues. Arizona knows all about that form of revenge as they lost the opportunity to host a Super Bowl in the early 90’s before finally installing a MLK holiday. Now some business and unions are boycotting travel to Arizona and are asking MLB to cancel the 2011 All-Star Game, scheduled for Phoenix. So is it fair that sports organizations can be pushed around but aren’t allowed to shove back?

I think not! Besides, sports celebrities – not unlike movie stars - are often at the forefront of public dialogue about things that matter most. Think Tim Tebow and his unmistakable pro life stance. Recall Dikembe Mutombo’s stance to stamp out world hunger. And what about how NIKE was taken to task, appropriately I believe, for operating sweat shops to manufacture high-margin shoes? And don’t forget the consortium of athletes, celebrities and, ironically, politicians who stood together in the fight against HIV and AIDS.

As ESPN’s J.A. Adande wrote, “Adding three letters (LOS of “Los Suns”) to the jerseys will serve as a reminder that there’s more than just playoff games being contested in Arizona. Sometimes we all need to be aware of the bigger picture and not just lost in the games. Thanks to Robert Sarver, we’ve been provided that reality check.”

On three, break!

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