Cal Gaunt
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has come under fire for using an offensive slur about dwarves.
Billionaire Jones, 79, was talking to the press about the teams’ late former director of scouting, Larry Lacewell, on day one of the Cowboys’ pre-season training camp.
He said: “I’m going to get somebody, a m*dget, to stand up there with me and dress him up like Lace.”
Learn how Jerry Jones became a billionaire NFL team owner…
While speaking, Jones showed reporters what he meant by raising his hand to his shoulder, indicating Lacewell’s short stature, before laughing.
The term used by Jones is deemed offensive to dwarves and was dropped by Hockey Canada in 2019 when it was used to describe a young age group.
In a statement sent to TMZ, Little People of America responded to Jones’ comments, labelling them ‘derogatory’.
It read: “M***** is a term that has widely been known to be derogatory for years and should be common knowledge to anyone in the public arena, such as Jerry Jones.
“Ignorance at this point is simply not an excuse.
“Any use of this disparaging slur along with suggestions or insinuations that our stature exists for amusement is deplorable and inexcusable.
Disney Fans Slam ‘Woke’ Decision To Axe Seven Dwarfs From ‘Snow White’ Following Backlash
‘Those who use the term m***** or any terminology that further stigmatises people born with dwarfism are asked to educate themselves to eradicate this word.
“Little People of America is asking Jerry Jones to issue an apology and vow to use appropriate terminology rooted in respect and dignity going forward.”
Jones has indeed since apologised, saying: “Earlier today I made a reference which I understand may have been viewed as offensive. I apologise.”
Comedy star Brad Williams, who has dwarfism, joked about Jones’ comment on Twitter: “When someone offends you, it’s important to have empathy and find common ground.
“Jerry and I have a lot in common. For instance, we both haven’t won a Super Bowl in over 25 years.”
Watch our Video of the Day below…
Do you have a story for us? If so, email us at [email protected]. All contact will be treated in confidence.
