The NFL will close all league facilities on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov, 3. with the aim of ensuring “that every member of the NFL family has an opportunity to exercise the precious right to vote,” the league and NFLPA announced in a joint statement on Thursday, per ESPN.
In the statement, the NFL and union laid out a list of goals to encourage voting, including education programs to help players, staff, and families register and working with state officials to create polling places at stadiums. The league said it would organize meetings between law enforcement and elected officials “to discuss steps that can be taken to reduce conflict and improve relations between law enforcement and members of the community.”
The league will also financially support the college eduction “for the children of the victims who will be recognized by our players.”
Last month, the “NFL Votes” initiative was launched, described as “a league-wide, non-partisan initiative that will support and encourage the civic engagement and voting of NFL players, legends, club and league personnel, and NFL fans from now until Election Day.”
The NBA, in partnership with LeBron James' “More Than a Vote” group, is similarly working on measures to encourage voting, including converting many of its active arenas into polling sites.
On Tuesday, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell reiterated support for players and coaches protesting racial justice and police violence. The league previously announced a $250 million commitment over 10 years to social justice causes.
NFL end zones in 2020 will feature two slogans: “It Takes All Of Us” and “End Racism”. Players will be able to display the names of victims of racial injustice on their helmets and gear. “Lift Ev'ry Voice And Sing,” known as the Black national anthem, will be played before every Week 1 NFL game, according to The Undefeated's Jason Reid.
Follow Us
Subscribe