Alabama Crimson Tide Fan’s Offensive Gay Bashing T-Shirt

UPDATE: 4:24pm 1/4/12

Mr. Ivey replied to my email with the following:

Mr. Adkins, I completely understand what you are saying. The site has been taken down. No shirts were ever produced and it was a misguided attempt at “getting back” at LSU fans for a shirt they created (using the same word) a couple of seasons ago. Also, the saying “We just beat the hell out of you” it a chant that AlAbama fans say to opposing teams after a victory. The person who originally posted my information incorrectly attributed the site to my business. This was a simple joke between me and some friends, a joke was insensitive and just plain dumb. I now see how this is offensive and is something that I am very very sorry for. I have been apologizing to every email I have received about it and will continue to do so for as long as it takes. I let a simple game of football and returning a joke to another fanbase cloud my judgement. Once again, my sincerest apologies to all who were offended. -Chris Ivey 334-300-0067

Original Post

The following is a copy of the email I sent to Drs. Witt (President) and Bonner (Vice-President/Provost) at The University of Alabama, inquiring about the University’s official response to the dispicable fan shirt that was created for the upcoming UA/LSU game on January 9th. Keep in mind, I am proud of the education I received from UA and the opportunities I was given as a professor following my graduation. However, I am still embarrassed and offended by this shirt. You can read more about this shirt at both Towleroad and Unicornbooty or click on the image here. Sent via email on January 4, 2011 Dear Drs. Witt and Bonner, I hope this inquiry finds you both well. As a former student and former professor at The University of Alabama I am writing to inquire if the University has any response to the offensive t-shirts that were fan designed for the upcoming UA/LSU game. Please see this link for the shirt in question and the discussion it has generated: http://www.towleroad.com/2012/01/alabama-crimson-tide-fans.html More details about the site, including the creator, can be found here: http://unicornbooty.com/blog/2012/01/04/university-of-alabama-celebrates-football-game-by-selling-hate-crime-t-shirts/ The site selling these shirts has been taken down but is registered to a Chris Ivey. The shirt is being printed by Triton Team Apparel Specialists, where Mr. Ivey (civey@teamtriton.com or 334.300.0067) is listed as the CEO/Owner. I’ve copied Mr. Ivey and his business partner Mr. Mills on this message should they wish to voice their logic behind this enterprise. As an alumni of UA and a gay man, I am saddened to see that anyone (fan, alumni, student or employee) would stoop to such atrocious levels of bigotry and crudeness – creating a shirt like this which promotes prejudice and violence. Does the University have any comment and will any action be taken to investigate this situation? I appreciate your time and await your reply. Best wishes, Wilson Thomas Adkins

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About the author

I’m Tommy, a writer and storyteller who works in marketing for the arts and cultural communities. I’m the author of Mabel Stanley and the Town That Was Built All Wrong, a fun and heartfelt book, and I’m currently working on a novel about self-discovery and the complexities of memory. Writing is a big part of my life, but I also enjoy creating experiences that bring people together, which is why my husband, Matt, and I co-run the online store Have Fun Spread Joy. It’s all about embracing the playful side of life and giving back along the way. I’m married to Matt, and we share our home with our two pets, Zoey (the cat) and Dixie (the dog). When I’m not writing, working on our store, or doing marketing for the arts, I like to dive into theater, something I want to get more involved with over time. I was diagnosed with ADHD, and while it comes with its own set of challenges, it also gives me a unique perspective that I try to channel into everything I do. Whether it’s writing, working on creative projects, or finding ways to spread joy, I’m all about making a lasting impact in whatever I do.

Tommy Karr