Dwayne Taylor
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is keeping it 100. The head of the National Football League has stepped up to admit being wrong about not fully comprehending players issues with inequality and racism.
NFL x Equality
On Friday, Goodell released a video statement addressing the Black Lives Matter movement. In addition to speaking out against racism, Roger Goodell also issued an apology on behalf of the NFL.
“We, the NFL, condemn racism and the systematic oppression of Black People. We, the NFL, admit we were wrong for not listening to NFL players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest. We, the NFL, believe Black Lives Matter.” -NFL’s Twitter
High-Key Details
Back in 2016, NFL free agent Colin Kaepernick sparked controversy by kneeling before games to protest police brutality. His actions ultimately made Kaepernick an outcast and use free agency as an opportunity to continue promoting Black Lives Matter.
The league’s statement makes no reference to former San Francisco quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who has been the most visible protester within the NFL against police brutality and and racial inequality in the United States. Kaepernick began kneeling during the national anthem before games in 2016. The peaceful protest was intended to focus attention on police violence against minorities and social inequality. As Kaepernick’s protests gained momentum, it also drew the ire of President Trump and others, and eventually ended the Super Bowl quarterback’s career the next season. (NPR)
Wait, There’s More
Over the past few years, Kaepernick and the NFL have clashed. Last year, the league settled with Colin about accusing the league of having him blackballed.
No team has offered Kaepernick a contract since 2017, which many attribute to his protests. Kaepernick accused NFL team owners of colluding to keep him from being signed. The NFL denied any collusion but in 2019, they reached a settlement with Kaepernick and former teammate Eric Reid, who knelt with him. (CNN)
Before You Go
Despite Goodell and the NFL’s public statement, Kaepernick’s publicized girlfriend Nessa isn’t convinced. She responded to the apology and ripped Roger for still keeping Kap out of the league.
