NEW YORK — As part of its new Code of Conduct against discrimination based on sexual orientation, Major League Baseball (MLB) has installed a new rule prohibiting players from posting porn in public places — and that means locker rooms.
The new Code of Conduct was made in conjunction with the New York State Attorney General's office right before this week’s All-Stars game in New York.
"Pornography on bulletin boards, lockers or anywhere else in the workplace or locker rooms is unacceptable. Sending pornography to co-workers or other players by mail, email, text, social media, or any other way is unacceptable," the Code stipulates.
Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, MLB Commissioner Bud Selig, and MLBPA (Major League Baseball Player’s Association) executive Michael Weiner also cautioned players against any homophobic displays and warning about playing “grab-ass.”
“Unwelcome physical conduct” including touching, kissing, or grabbing, or threats or simulations of unwanted sexual conduct,” are also considered harassment or discrimination and are to be avoided.
Selig told The Village Voice that as a "social institution,” professional baseball ought to reflect the values and diversity of the communities it draws together.
Addressing the issue of gays coming out in professional men’s sports, Schneiderman commented, "by making a clear stand against discrimination in the workplace, our National Pastime is showing national leadership in the fight to promote equal justice for all."
The MLB was the first pro sports organization to insert a sexual orientation non-discrimination clause into its collective bargaining agreements in 2011, according to the Voice.
