In a recent Facebook post, prominent sportsman Dean Greenaway shared his thoughts and frustrations over what he calls the exploitation of athletes.
Greenaway the brainchild behind VI Sports and Culture Facebook Page said, “STOP ATHLETES EXPLOITATION!!!
Usain Bolt posted about this & now I’m seeing it in the BVI, the exploitation of our athletes
Their Name, Image & Likeness is being used to sell shirts & what does the athletes who work so hard get? Was their permission sought & consent given & a contractual arrangement made?
Our athletes are facing financial challenges with Pre-Olympic Games treatment bills & upcoming competition bills. Will the proceeds go towards this or is this solely Capitalism @ work?
This need to be addressed & get the athletes involved as their Name, Image & Likeness is being used WITHOUT THEIR CONSENT!
This HAS to immediately be addressed!!
WE CANNOT ALLOW THE EXPLOITATION OF OUR ATHLETES TO CONTINUE & THEY DON’T SHARE IN THE SPOILS!”
Since the recent success of VI Athletes Chantel Malone, Kyron McMaster and Elinah Phillip some local businesses have created merchandise for sale showcasing photos of the athletes without their permission.
Our newsroom caught up with Mr. Greenaway who said he felt it was important to bring this issue to the forefront and added it not only happens to athlete but many other public professionals like musicians and media professionals. The sportsman’s post created quite the conversation from community members, many of whom agreed with his plea.
Olympian and “Clockwork” producer Usain Bolt recently spoke to the issue on his social media page. Bolt shared strong thoughts and encouragement to athletes about protecting their brands from ‘Bandwagonist’.
In the post Bolt said, “A lot Athletes sought support from corporate Jamaica in their preparation leading up and heading to Olympic Games and got NO HELP. Athletes know your Worth/Power now that they all want to jump onto your Brand/Image for free.”