Several NFL quarterbacks have used their platform to stand in solidarity with the African American community following the death of George Floyd. Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr is now making sure to do his part in denouncing racial injustice.
Carr released a statement on the importance of athletes speaking out on societal issues, via Jim Trotter of NFL.com:
For years, we have all been taught to “just stay out of politics.” (When one side is so far one way and the other side is so far the other.) Not just as a white athlete, but all athletes in general. I think over the last couple of years, people have begun to break down these barriers by using their platform for what they believe is right.
Something I was always taught as an athlete was to keep your head down and be you when there is a major headlining story. I use my platform to preach all over the world, which is an honor and a blessing. But recently, it started to weigh heavy on my heart that it was time to stand up and say what I have been feeling for a long time, disregarding what anyone from any standpoint had to say or think about it. I felt in my heart this was the right moment to speak up, to not care so much about politics but instead speak truth.
Derek Carr went on to discuss his goal in trying to help promote change:
My goal is simple, and that is to unite people. Nothing bigger, nothing smaller. Unity is how we will see real change occur! As a spiritual, God-fearing man, I believe that our country is dealing with major spiritual, heart and system issues. Therefore, I firmly believe the blood Jesus shed on the cross is the answer; not fighting and anger.
I feel the same way today as I always have. I want everyone to feel loved and welcomed. I want every life to be so precious to everyone. I want people to love their neighbors just as they love themselves. I want a genuine respect and unity for every life that lives in these United States and calls it home.
It is encouraging to see Derek Carr take a stand along with a number of other quarterbacks such as the Philadelphia Eagles' Carson Wentz and the Cincinnati Bengals' Joe Burrow. Meanwhile, New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees has since made headlines for maintaining his narrow-minded stance when it comes to the prospect of player protests during the national anthem.
As civil unrest has unraveled in recent years, athletes have been criticized by the political media for using their platform to address social injustice. The tragic death of Floyd at the hands of a police officer has now sparked ongoing protest throughout the United States and the actions taken by those like Colin Kaepernick back in 2016 are more prevalent now than they ever were.
Raiders owner Mark Davis has also issued his own statement condemning the actions taken by law enforcement on the team's behalf. Davis and Carr will play an integral role in using their platform to usher in change as new members of the Las Vegas community.
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