Report: Washington NFL Team Owner Dan Snyder, Wife Email Apology Letter To Entire Organization
Jul 17, 2020, 5:40 PM | Updated: 5:42 pm
Washington Redskins owner Daniel Snyder and his wife, Tanya, listen as Joe Gibbs addresses the media as Gibbs was announced as the new head coach of the Washington Redskins at a media conference on January 8, 2004 at Redskins Park in Ashburn, Virginia. (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images)
(Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Washington NFL franchise owner Dan Snyder and his wife Tanya emailed an apology letter to “each member of their organization” after a report of cultural issues and multiple cases of harassment in the within the organization was published, according to an email obtained by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
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On Thursday, July 16, The Washington Post reported that 15 female former employees said they were sexually harassed during their time with the team.
“We are sad and disappointed, as you all are, after reading the story in The Washington Post yesterday. On behalf of the organization, we want to apologize to each of you and to everyone affected by this situation,” the Snyders wrote. “The action in the story have no place in our franchise or in society. As you may be aware, when the past issues outlined in the article were initially brought to our attention, they were addressed at the time. However, some of these issues were brought forth only in the last few days and we have subsequently made changes and addressed them as well.”
Here’s the letter that Dan and Tanya Snyder emailed tonight to each member of their organization, per source: pic.twitter.com/R7N65ZM8cs
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 17, 2020
The Snyder’s email continued by acknowledging that the organization’s culture “clearly” needs work and they want members of the organization to help create change.
“Clearly, there is work to be done to build a better organizational culture. We need to get better and the time is now. To create the culture we all want, we need your help. We want you to be a part of this process,” the Snyders continued. “As we go forward, you will hear more from our leadership team in the near future about this action plan. In closing, we want to thank you for everything you do for this organization. This offseason has been trying and difficult and your work and commitment mean everything. We are committed to ensuring this organization is one that promises a high standard of personal conduct while also representing the values of inclusiveness, respect, and diversity.”
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Earlier on July 17, Dan Snyder said he’s committed to improving the culture inside the team after allegations of sexual harassment, while the NFL plans to wait for a law firm’s review before taking action.
“Beth Wilkinson and her firm are empowered to do a full, unbiased investigation and make any and all requisite recommendations,” Snyder said. “Upon completion of her work, we will institute new policies and procedures and strengthen our human resources infrastructure to not only avoid these issues in the future but most importantly create a team culture that is respectful and inclusive of all.”
On July 13, the NFL team announced that it was retiring the “Redskins” nickname and team logo after 87 years.
— Washington Redskins (@Redskins) July 13, 2020
The team was known as the Boston Redskins from 1933-37 and as the Washington Redskins from 1937-2020.
Dan Snyder purchased the franchise in 1999.
