Riley Cooper Racial Slur Video: Eagles Wide Receiver to Undergo Sensitivity Training
When one works in an industry that is largely populated by African-Americans, it's probably not a good idea to throw the n-word around casually. Unfortunately, that is exactly what the Philadelphia Eagles' Riley Cooper did earlier this summer, and he is now paying dearly for his language.
Cooper was caught on video at a Kenny Chesney concert having an altercation with a black security guard at the event. Clearly upset at something, Cooper soon erupted into a highly-derogatory and aggressive tirade, stating: "I will jump that fence and fight every (n-word) here, bro."
"We are shocked and appalled by Riley Cooper's words," Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie said in a statement. "This sort of behavior or attitude from anyone has no role in a civil society. He has accepted responsibility for his words and his actions. He has been fined for this incident."
Ever since the video was posted to CrossingBroad.com on Wednesday, Cooper has had to endure a media firestorm in an attempt to smooth over his image. It doesn't help that he was already receiving more attention as his role in the Eagles' offense was expected to increase after wide receiver Jeremy Maclin sustained a season-ending injury.
Cooper immediately apologized for his behavior after the video of his racial slur went public, and also held a media conference to explain the situation and apologize. The Eagles have already publicly chastised him for the comments and have also fined Cooper for his language. Now, it appears the wide receiver will also have to undergo sensitivity training.
"In meeting with Riley yesterday, we decided together that his next step will be to seek outside assistance to help him fully understand the impact of his words and actions. He needs to reflect. As an organization, we will provide the resources he needs to do so," said a statement issued by the team.
Cooper has also held a team meeting where he expressed his regret over his actions to his teammates, many of whom are black. So far, Michael Vick, who is no stranger to public scrutiny himself, has come forward to publicly support Cooper and state that he forgives him for what he believes to be a temporary lack of judgment.
To Cooper's credit, he has been very remorseful since news of the incident first broke, and has placed the blame fully on himself. He has been doing damage control ever since, and has issued apologies to everyone in the Eagles organization.
"I am so ashamed and disgusted with myself. I want to apologize," Cooper said in a statement. "I have been offensive. I have apologized to my coach, to Jeffrey Lurie, to [General Manager] Howie Roseman and to my teammates. I owe an apology to the fans and to this community. I am so ashamed, but there are no excuses. What I did was wrong and I will accept the consequences."
What do you think, is an apology and sensitivity training enough for using such a derogatory racial slur? Comment below and tell us what you think about the situation.