For days, the Las Vegas Raiders’ social media account had been under fire for not putting out a public support of Black Lives Matter. This was days after showing support for the LVMPD officer who was shot on duty.
Players, we hear you. #StrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/UJvS7AP0an
— NFL (@NFL) June 5, 2020
The Las Vegas Raiders were the original pioneers when it came to all social and racial issues in the AFL and NFL. Owner Mark Davis had come out days earlier and made a statement speaking out against police brutality and the spiciness of the current political climate. Other franchises’ social media accounts were showing messages of unity with Black Lives Matter, yet the Raiders remained mum.
Action vs Words
“I want to get together with players, coaches, and community leaders to get the conversation going, to discuss how to go forward,” Davis told ESPN’s Paul Gutierrez. “The solutions start here at the local level, with the attorney general, the sheriff, and other community leaders to open up lines of communication. That’s the beginning.”
Can we both agree that social media is the main source for information for most folx in 2020? Don’t you believe the Raiders have an obligation to make a public statement in support of our Black family? Come on now. It’s a simple task that would make a huge impact right now.
— ð’žð’½ð’¶ð“ƒð“‰ð‘’ð“ (@chantillyyylace) June 5, 2020
Two things can be equally true, and that’s a concept more and more seem to struggle with. Lip service is no longer going to be tolerated by anyone in the NFL. But the true issue lies with what do people value more, a team making a statement or a team taking action.
Not what they day but what they do. Looks like many just wanted a # to retweet and not following plans of action
— Kevin Wynne (@kvnwynne) June 5, 2020
Even NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell issued a statement stopping just short of an apology to Colin Kaepernick. As well as other NFL players for not listening to them. Condemning racism and the systemic oppression of Black People, closing with “We, the NFL, believe Black Lives Matter.”
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. #InspireChange pic.twitter.com/ENWQP8A0sv
— NFL (@NFL) June 5, 2020
The amount of power, resources, and clout that the NFL has is vast and massive. The corporate influence they wield because of their massive financial machine makes a powerful ally for the advancement of African-Americans.
While it’s important for the Raiders and the NFL to come out and voice/post support for Black Lives Matter, they must also follow through with action and change.
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*Top Photo: Las Vegas Raiders’ Official Twitter