We’re seeing a lot of professional athletes speak out since George Floyd was killed while in the custody of the Minneapolis Police Department Tuesday evening.
Floyd’s death has sparked outrage around the United States and within the African American community. He was unarmed at the time of his death. The four officers involved have been fired. An outpouring of grief has turned into calls for murder charges to be filed.
Cincinnati Bengals rookie No. 1 overall pick Joe Burrow joins in a chorus of sports figures to step up and speak out.
“The black community needs our help,” the rookie said, via Twitter. “They have been unheard for far too long. Open your ears, listen, and speak. This isn’t politics. This is human rights.”
That last line is what stands out. This shouldn’t be about politics. It should be about human rights. The sooner we as a society recognize this, the better.
Burrow joins the likes of Carson Wentz to take a strong stance following Floyd’s tragic death. They are not typically within the demographics of those in the sports world who speak out on matters of racial injustice.
In reality, a united front is needed during these trying times. It sure looks like the sports world agrees.