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Abstract: 

Author Rita Smith traces how professional and collegiate sports, long celebrated as sources of teamwork and community identity, have also fostered environments tolerant of gender-based violence. Through cases from O.J. Simpson to Ray Rice, she illustrates how leagues historically protected athletes at the expense of victims. The article documents the NFL’s evolving response, including education, accountability policies, and partnerships with domestic violence organizations. Smith argues that sports institutions—given their unparalleled visibility and reach—have a moral and practical duty to model respect, challenge abuse, and engage men as allies.

Keywords: Domestic Violence and Sports; National Football League; Gender-Based Violence; Athlete Accountability; Social Responsibility; Cultural Change

Affiliations:  1: Executive Vice President of External Relations for domesticshelters.org.