Assignment task: Explore the film Fully Length Film: Not Just a Game: Power, Politics & American Sports
Shorter Film: Not Just A Game - Preview
Let's explore the connection between societal and group attitudes in relation to sports. Sports and political culture are powerful in shaping our lives in relation to social change. Historically, there have been debates about whether athletes should take a stand on social issues. Throughout history, we have been told that sports and politics do not mix and the two spheres should remain separate from each other; that athletes shouldn't be political and politics should exist wholly outside the realm of sports. In the documentary Not Just a Game, Dave Zirin explores the long history of sports being at the center of political debates and struggles against racism, sexism, homophobia and more.
Throughout history, what sorts of justifications, attitudes, and fears have been promoted to discourage women, gay and lesbian, and non-heteronormative athletes from participating in sports? Why? Support. You can focus on one or more of the groups mentioned.