When you are representing a body in an international tournament or competition, it is not the time to make political statements. If you do, it is appropriate for that group to reprimand you for abuse of your position as an official representative of the group.

Unless, of course, the New York Times agrees with your sentiments -- which is why they question the patriotism and Americanism of the United States Bridge Federation for acting against competitors at an international tournament who used the opportunity to bash the President at an official event.

Three of the seven team members have expressed regret for the sign. The United States Bridge Federation has decided to get tough on the others. It is demanding that the players say who came up with the idea of the sign and has ordered a one-year suspension from play for the team members who refuse to apologize.

This sort of censorship is un-American, unsporting and counterproductive. It will only confirm the far-too-common belief that America is no longer committed to free speech — or fair play.

Sorry, folks, but that conclusion is wrong-headed. None from the USBF is saying that members or competitors must support the President -- merely that they refrain from political activity while representing the group in an official capacity. That is a reasonable position to take -- and it is unreasonable for the New York Times to oppose it.

Posted by: Greg at 11:29 PM | Comments (1) | Add Comment
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