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Defending Freedom of Tweets?

Running back Rashard Mendenhall receives backlash from fans after criticizing the celebration of the assassination of Osama Bin Laden in a tweet.

This case study discusses the unique challenges to freedom of speech public figures face when negotiating their public image and expressing their own values. It examines the controversy that broke out when Rashard Mendenhall, a running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers, tweeted comments criticizing the celebration of the assassination of Osama Bin Laden.

The full case study, discussion questions, and additional resources can be accessed through the link below, which will open a new tab at The Texas Program in Sports & Media (TPSM) website.

TPSM Case Study: Defending the Freedom of Tweets?

Intro to GVV

Intro to GVV

Giving Voice to Values is learning about how to act on your values effectively – not about wondering whether you could.

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GVV Pillar 1: Values

GVV Pillar 1: Values

Know and appeal to a short list of widely shared values. Don’t assume too little (or too much) commonality with the viewpoints of others.

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GVV Pillar 2: Choice

GVV Pillar 2: Choice

Believe that you have a choice about voicing your values and know what has helped – and hindered you – in the past so you can work around these factors.

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GVV Pillar 3: Normalization

GVV Pillar 3: Normalization

Normalization means expecting values conflicts so that you approach them calmly and competently. Over-reaction can limit your choices unnecessarily.

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GVV Pillar 4: Purpose

GVV Pillar 4: Purpose

Define your personal and professional purpose explicitly and broadly before conflicts arise, and appeal to this sense of purpose in others.

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GVV Pillar 6: Voice

GVV Pillar 6: Voice

You are more likely to say words that you’ve pre-scripted for yourself, and more likely to “voice” your values, with scripting and practice.

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