# data[].attributes.headline
Nike, Colin Kaepernick and the pitfalls of ‘woke’ corporate branding

# data[].attributes.subject
Nike, Colin Kaepernick and the pitfalls of ‘woke’ corporate branding

# data[].attributes.body
An article I co-wrote - SZ.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Colin Kaepernick mural in Atlanta, Georgia. Erik S. Lesser/EPA

Nike reignited a culture war recently by revealing Colin Kaepernick as their spokesperson for the 30th anniversary "Just Do It" campaign. The sportswear brand's announcement came via a new advert in which young African Americans, Muslim women, physically impaired athletes and white skateboarders all encourage the viewer to follow their dreams, no matter how crazy.

Nike is clearly taking advantage of hot-button social issues to promote their brand, but commercialising human rights is tricky territory. Can a global brand like Nike really support a cause without coopting it? And is the company prepared to face scrutiny over its own ethical record?

Colin Kaepernick, a former National Football League (NFL) star, knelt during the pre-game national anthem in August 2016, in silent protest at police brutality and in the wake of several high-profile police shootings of unarmed African American men.

Dozens of fellow NFL players, of all backgrounds and heritages, followed suit and the protest soon included players from every team in the league. The backlash was swift and severe, with conservative pundits, veterans and president Donald Trump decrying the protests as disrespectful to the American flag and military.

The latest salvo in the debate was launched by Kaepernick's narration of the advert, prompting a social media hashtag urging people to "#BurnYourNikes". Some observers in the US seemed to think that Nike had gone too far, while the company's share price and brand approval ratings fell, at least, in the short-term.

Nike's skeletons in the closet

Kaepernick's role as a Nike brand ambassador may seem like political theatre, intended to antagonise Donald Trump and his supporters. However, the reality is much more vapid.

This is smart business. The ad is clearly targeted at Nike's most important customers: young, urban consumers whose views are supposed to resonate with the advert's apparent homage to diversity and social justice.

The brand made a strategic commitment to equality several years ago, which has seen it become a visible advocate for equality and civil rights. Nike has been trying to reposition itself since then as a socially conscious sportswear brand, to escape its ties with Lance Armstrong, Oscar Pistorius and Michael Vick.

Alba Vigaray/EPA

But the company suffered an own-goal this spring, when a New York Times investigation revealed complaints from 50 current and former employees about Nike's "boys' club" culture of sexual harassment and gender pay disparities. The allegations led to several high profile departures from Nike headquarters in Oregon, but it didn't end there.

In August, four female executives filed a class-action lawsuit against the company for gender discrimination. In the #Metoo era, Nike has, once again, found itself on the wrong side of the debate.

It's no wonder then that some commentators have become uncomfortable with Nike's foray into politics, arguing that it's a cynical ploy to hijack social movements in order to sell shoes. Causes and campaigns can be big business for sportswear companies and may even do some good - just look at Adidas' training shoes made from ocean waste.

Yet Nike's support for Kaepernick's protest, given its origins in opposing racial profiling and violence by the police, raises questions which detract from the lustre of the brand's apparently noble stance.

Coopting or cooperating?

Part of the problem lies in Nike's use of imagery, words and stories that lie well beyond the reach of sport. The tag-line of the campaign, "Believe in something, even if it means sacrificing everything", sounds like a call to political action.

It's the kind of soaring rhetoric you might expect to hear at a Black Lives Matter rally or the Women's March on Washington. It's certainly a far cry from the banter between Michael Jordan and Spike Lee from the original Just Do It adverts three decades ago.

By exploiting injustice for commercial purposes, Nike may be undermining or demeaning the causes it declares to support. All of this begs the question of what relation social justice and equality bears to training shoes anyway.

Nike's choice of Kaepernick to front the latest ad campaign commercialises issues such as racism, Islamophobia and human rights violations. Their framing of these problems beneath one catchy slogan seems to imply that there is equivalence between the experiences of kneeling NFL players, Muslim women wearing hijabs in a boxing gym, people overcoming cancer and urban white male skateboarders.

It's all further complicated by Nike's own internal ethical struggles. Nevertheless, despite the knee-jerk reaction among shoe burning ex-customers, sentiment already seems to be bouncing back in Nike's favour. The company should expect positive medium and long-term results.

In the meantime, every training shoe that Nike antagonists burn generates more attention and therefore revenue for the company. Critics discount the current advertising campaign at their peril.

We should expect more of this kind of corporate support for social issues in Trump's divided America. Capitalism and activism have always been uneasy bedfellows, but companies should be wary of appropriating social justice movements and equating buying products to fighting for human rights. Nike, and other companies, risk exposing their own skeletons in the closet by taking these high and mighty stances.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Nike, Colin Kaepernick and the pitfalls of 'woke' corporate branding

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Nike reignited a culture war recently by revealing Colin Kaepernick as their spokesperson for the 30th anniversary "Just Do It" campaign. The sportswear brand's announcement came via a new advert in which young African Americans, Muslim women, physically impaired athletes and white skateboarders all encourage the viewer to follow their dreams, no matter how crazy.

# data[].attributes.body
BLM art in front row

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
As Serena Williams gathered herself before unleashing a serve during her US Open quarterfinal match on Wednesday, artist Nikkolas Smith got excited.

Smith knew, in that crucial moment, Williams was focused on the task at hand. But that didn't stop him from imagining that the 23-time Grand Slam winner was also reflecting on the pieces of Black Lives Matter-themed artwork - one of them that he created - positioned in clear view just beyond her opponent.

"Who knows, maybe she got a little bit of inspiration," Smith said. "For the entire tournament, I've been thinking, 'Serena Williams is facing my art during a tennis match.' It's been surreal."

The artwork by Smith - a self-portrait titled Break Point that Smith said reflects the thousands of men and women struggling and fighting for equality and justice - is one of 18 pieces that have been on display in the front row of Arthur Ashe Stadium at the US Open. The prominent placement was made possible by the absence of fans at this year's US Open amid the global pandemic.

The art, presented as part of the "Be Open" initiative launched by the USTA, came as a result of the governing body of American tennis wanting to acknowledge the issues faced by Black Americans.

"In a year where the US Open was going to be very different and unique, we wanted to shine a light on the Black Lives Matter movement," said Nicole Kankam, managing director of marketing for the USTA. "The 'Be Open' initiative covers different areas of racial injustice and equality - both gender and LGBTQ. We also wanted to give a voice and platform to Black artists that may not have been given a voice or showcase in this way."

That includes Brittany Williams, who is based in Rochester, New York, where she works with local youths to install mural-style art on basketball courts in Rochester parks.

Williams, 30, received the call from the USTA in August. Given a two-week deadline, she was initially reluctant.

"At the time, I wasn't sure if I could balance the two," said Williams, who spent the summer working on her Peculiar Asphalt project. "Once I read the brief and understood we could do whatever inspired us, I knew I wanted to be involved."

Williams decided to focus her art on her mother, Yolanda Davis.

"At first, she was a bit extra because she's very tedious in details and really picky," Williams said, laughing. "We ended up taking some pictures and she picked the one she liked. She gave me some advice: Don't mess this up."

The final piece, titled Resilience, is dedicated to Black mothers who are committed to challenging the narrative around motherhood. Williams and her mother, already huge sports fans, have spent the past two weeks snapping images of the art whenever they see it on television.

"At first, I was really curious to see how the artwork was going to be displayed, because art being placed on chairs is something I just couldn't imagine," Williams said. "But they're right in the front row, and you see them when players are serving and from other angles. To have Serena Williams right there in front of my artwork is truly amazing."

When Smith, who's based in Los Angeles, was called by the USTA, it was the extension of a transformational year for his career, triggered by former first lady Michelle Obama sharing his image of George Floyd, who was slain while in police custody, on Instagram. That share made the image go viral (1.3 million likes on her page) and resulted in additional shares by singers Janet Jackson and Miley Cyrus.

Like so many of you, I'm pained by these recent tragedies. And I'm exhausted by a heartbreak that never seems to stop. Right now it's George, Breonna, and Ahmaud. Before that it was Eric, Sandra, and Michael. It just goes on, and on, and on. Race and racism is a reality that so many of us grow up learning to just deal with. But if we ever hope to move past it, it can't just be on people of color to deal with it. It's up to all of us-Black, white, everyone-no matter how well-meaning we think we might be, to do the honest, uncomfortable work of rooting it out. It starts with self-examination and listening to those whose lives are different from our own. It ends with justice, compassion, and empathy that manifests in our lives and on our streets. I pray we all have the strength for that journey, just as I pray for the souls and the families of those who were taken from us. Artwork: @nikkolas_smith

A post shared by Michelle Obama (@michelleobama) on

Smith's social media following exploded, going from 60,000 followers to 159,000 on Instagram. People took notice.

"Black Lives Matter reached out and asked if they could create a piece, and then it was on billboards all across America from Times Square in New York to the Beverly Center in Los Angeles," Smith said. "Then Converse reached out and said they wanted to post my work on billboards instead of images of shoes. It's been back-to-back-to-back weeks of unbelievable moments."

As the billboards went up, Smith drove around the city to capture the images.

After Converse completed the citywide installation, Smith and his pregnant wife attempted a marathon session through Los Angeles.

"We had this wonderful day mapped out, but had to cut it short because my wife wasn't feeling good," Smith said. "She wound up going into labor that day, and my son was born."

Smith grew up as a sports fan, but he has watched more tennis these past few weeks than at any time in his life.

"I pop in and out of the matches all the time, and my mother is always calling telling me she saw my face," Smith said. "It was so cool to see Novak Djokovic standing in front of my art. Even though I know the art is going to be in the same place and isn't going to change, it's still exciting to watch."

With the US Open coming to a close, the USTA Foundation plans to start auctioning off the art on Friday. Part of the proceeds will go to the National Junior Tennis and Learning network, founded by Arthur Ashe, and part will go to a charity of the artist's choice.

The 18 artists, even in a US Open absent fans, have shared an experience these past few weeks that they'll never forget.

"Art tends to be in galleries and not out in the public," Williams said. "We had a chance to show what's going on through our art on a worldwide stage."

Jerry Bembry is a senior writer at The Undefeated. His bucket list items include being serenaded by Lizz Wright, and watching the Knicks play an NBA game in June.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Black Lives Matter art gets a front-row seat at US Open

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
As Serena Williams gathered herself before unleashing a serve during her US Open quarterfinal match on Wednesday, artist Nikkolas Smith got excited. Smith knew, in that crucial moment, Williams was focused on the task at hand.

# data[].attributes.headline
Premier League players kneel for 'Black Lives Matter' before each game

# data[].attributes.subject
Premier League players kneel for 'Black Lives Matter' before each game

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Manchester City's Raheem Sterling said it was a "massive step" that players took a knee in support of the Black Lives Matter movement on the opening night of the Premier League's return.

Players and staff from Aston Villa, Sheffield United, Manchester City and Arsenal knelt as their matches began.

Match officials also took part, on a night players' names on shirts were replaced with 'Black Lives Matter'.

"It shows we're going in the right direction," Sterling told Sky Sports.

"Little by little we're seeing change. It was natural, it was organic. We saw the teams do it in the earlier kick-off and thought it was something we had to do as well."

Football Daily: The Premier League takes a knee, and the 'ghost goal'

The Premier League was returning after a 100-day hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic.

And players and officials showed their support for the movement for racial equality following the death of George Floyd in the United States last month.

Floyd, a 46-year-old unarmed black man, died as a white police officer held a knee on his neck for nearly nine minutes. His death sparked protests around the world.

A joint statement issued by Villa and Sheffield United shortly after their match began said they "were proud to stand in solidarity" with the actions of their players and coaching staff in "expressing our collective support for the Black Lives Matter movement".

Both clubs said they hoped they had sent "a strong message of unity" and amplified "the many messages of support from Premier League players and the wider football family".

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola added: "White people should say sorry for the way we have treated black people for 400 years. I am ashamed of what we have done to black people around the world.

"It is not only in the USA where it has happened. The problem is everywhere.

"Maybe for our generation it is too late but for the following generations, they can understand the only race is ourselves. We are human beings. It doesn't matter the colour of our skin."

Colin Kaepernick started kneeling symbolically during the pre-game national anthem in the NFL in 2016, in protest at police violence against African-Americans in the United States.

'That touched my heart'

Former Crystal Palace striker Clinton Morrison said the moment players took a knee in the opening game of the restart was "special".

He told BBC Radio 5 Live: "That touched my heart. I didn't expect that. It was magnificent. Credit to both sets of players and staff."

Former Arsenal and England striker Ian Wright Premier League players wearing 'Black Lives Matter' on their shirts shows the league wants to be on the right side of history.

"What the Premier League have done, is to give them the power," said Wright, who was sent racist abuse on social media last month.

Research by UK Sport and Sport England found that black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) people accounted for just 5.2% of board members across the 130 sport organisations they fund, including the Football Association.

According to the 2011 Census, about 13% of the population of England and Wales is from a BAME background.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Players kneeling a 'massive step' - Sterling

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Manchester City's Raheem Sterling said it was a "massive step" that players took a knee in support of the Black Lives Matter movement on the opening night of the Premier League's return. Players and staff from Aston Villa, Sheffield United, Manchester City and Arsenal knelt as their matches began.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
British Olympic athletes encouraged to speak out on racism and inclusivity

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
British athletes are being encouraged to discuss issues of racism and inclusivity ahead of potential protest at next year's delayed Olympics.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Sebastian Coe has backed athletes taking a knee on the medal podium to protest against racism, in a move that puts pressure on the International Olympic Committee to lift its ban on such demonstrations.

Lord Coe, the president of World Athletics and a double Olympic champion, said it was impossible to "separate sport from social and cultural issues" and that athletes who used the podium to make such a statement should be supported.

Taking the knee has become an international protest against the unfair treatment of black people and has been widely used in sport since the death of George Floyd at the hands of American police in May. However, it remains banned by the IOC, with some senior members opposing any change to its

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Sebastian Coe backs athletes who want to take a knee on medal podium

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Sebastian Coe has backed athletes taking a knee on the medal podium to protest against racism, in a move that puts pressure on the International Olympic Committee to lift its ban on such demonstrations.

# data[].attributes.headline
England men’s cricket wear BLM logos in support for movement

# data[].attributes.subject
England men’s cricket wear BLM logos in support for movement

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
England Men's Test squad will join the West Indies side to carry the logo on shirt collars during the three-match series.

Link Copied

The England Men's Test team will wear a Black Lives Matter logo on their playing shirts when they face West Indies in the #raisethebat three-match Test Series, starting Wednesday 8 July.

The decision was taken by the England and Wales Cricket Board, fully supported by the England players led by Test captain Joe Root and stand-in captain for the first Test Ben Stokes. In a mark of solidarity, the team will join the West Indies and carry an identical logo on their playing shirts.

The Black Lives Matter emblem was designed by Alisha Hosannah, the partner of Troy Deeney, professional footballer and captain of Premier League side Watford Football Club. He was contacted by ECB and CWI and permission was granted for the logo to be displayed on the collar according to ICC regulations.

Tom Harrison, ECB Chief Executive Officer, said: "The England and Wales Cricket Board fully support the message that Black Lives Matter. It has become a message of solidarity and a drive for progress and societal change. There can be no place for racism in society or our sport, and we must do more to tackle it.

"Our support of that message is not an endorsement, tacit or otherwise, of any political organisation, nor the backing of any group that calls for violence or condones illegal activity.

"We are aware of certain aspects of the movement that promote their own political views, and their actions are not supported in any way by the ECB and our players.

"This moment is about unity. We are proud that our players will stand alongside those from the West Indies and wear a logo that embodies that philosophy. It is fitting that they do so in solidarity with athletes from the football world who wore it first. Our thanks go to Troy Deeney and his partner Alisha Hosannah, creator of the logo, who generously agreed to share it with us.

"We have a responsibility to ensure that cricket is truly a game for everyone. We will shortly set out further steps that build on the work we have already done to make cricket more inclusive and diverse in order to address some of the barriers which still exist for some communities."

England men's Test captain Joe Root, said: "It is important to show solidarity to the black community and to raise much needed awareness around the topics of equality and justice. The England players and management are unified in this approach and will use the platform of international cricket to fully support the objective of eradicating racial prejudice wherever it exists.

"The majority of us do not understand what individuals from BAME backgrounds have to go through when people make judgments because of the colour of their skin. As a group, we are learning about this and educating ourselves.

"There has to be equal opportunity and equal rights for all. We hope by making this stance we can play our part in standing shoulder-to-shoulder as a team and we hope that by continuing to raise awareness we can move towards a society in which the colour of your skin and your background has no bearing on your opportunities.

"It is very simple, we believe there is no room for racism or any form of discrimination, anywhere."

Troy Deeney, added: "Alisha and I are immensely proud to be asked and take part in a monumental moment in world sport, this amazing decision by the England and West Indies cricket teams to show their support for Black Lives Matter.

"When I got the call, I didn't hesitate to respond, because I know as sportspersons in the spotlight, how important our efforts are to bring about change and the role we play in moving towards change in our society.

"Watching cricket with my grandad shaped my childhood, so it's great to be able to help England and West Indies Cricket to show their support in such a meaningful way."

The England team are currently preparing for the first Test in a bio-secure environment at the Ageas Bowl. All players and management live, train and play on-venue and is part of comprehensive medical and operational protocol to ensure all players and staff can play safely due to the impact of COVID-19.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
England Men to carry Black Lives Matter logo on shirts throughout West Indies series

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
England Men's Test squad will join the West Indies side to carry the logo on shirt collars during the three-match series. Link Copied The England Men's Test team will wear a Black Lives Matter logo on their playing shirts when they face West Indies in the #raisethebat three-match Test Series, starting Wednesday 8 July.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
England will honour the Black Lives Matter movement during their five-match T20 series against West Indies, says captain Heather Knight.

The first match in the series takes place on Monday at The Incora County Ground, Derby.

"We've had a chat as players and we definitely want to do something to honour the movement," said Knight.

"I'll speak to (West Indies captain) Stafanie Taylor to work out what it will look like for both teams."

The two teams are in separate bio-secure bubbles so Knight has been texting Taylor to discuss how best to mark the movement, but the skipper did confirm England will wear the BLM logo on their shirts.

During the men's series between England and West Indies earlier in the summer, both teams took a knee before the start of play.

Both England and West Indies will be playing their first competitive match since the T20 World Cup in March.

South Africa were due to tour England but because of Covid-19-related travel restrictions, while February's World Cup in Australia has been pushed back a year.

"It has been tough," said Knight. "We were in our first training bubble and within two days we found out the World Cup was cancelled and South Africa had pulled out.

"It's been a very surreal time for all of us and we're all excited and very grateful to the West Indies for coming over. It was a 10-day turnaround to get them locked in to tour.

"We're massively grateful to them, their board and the England and Wales Cricket Board for making it happen."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
England will honour the Black Lives Matter movement during their five-match T20 series against West Indies, says captain Heather Knight. The first match in the series takes place on Monday at The Incora County Ground, Derby. "We've had a chat as players and we definitely want to do something to honour the movement," said Knight.

# data[].attributes.headline
Black Lives Matter: Women's Super League players to 'show solidarity'

# data[].attributes.subject
Black Lives Matter: Women's Super League players to 'show solidarity'

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
More must be done to "create the kind of change that athletes, people and society want to see", says Aston Villa and England defender Anita Asante.

Women's Super League players are set to take a knee this season to show support for the Black Lives Matter movement.

England captain Steph Houghton added: "It's important to show we can always be together and united over equality."

On Thursday a number of players told BBC Sport they expect teams to take a knee prior to kick-off in Saturday's Community Shield fixture between Chelsea and Manchester City at Wembley.

It will be the first competitive professional women's football fixture in England since February, and therefore the first opportunity for WSL players to show their support in this way.

Asante, 35, who could make her Villa debut when they host Manchester City in the WSL opener seven days later, said: "It's an important message to show solidarity.

"But we have to do more in terms of how we impart direct actions that will create the kind of change that athletes and people and society want to see.

"That's just a small part of a bigger goal, ultimately. For me it's about human rights, and if we share those values then it's one we can all buy into."

Manchester City captain Houghton will be involved in the Community Shield and hopes sport can play its part in changing attitudes.

"We want to support as much as we possibly can and it's a way of showing our support," she said.

"It's important to show we can always be united, not just in football and sport but life in general."

Houghton and Reading's Danielle Carter added that WSL teams have been taking a knee prior to kick-off in their pre-season matches, regardless of the fact many of those have been played without any crowds or television cameras.

"As captains we have conversations with our own team-mates as to how comfortable we are," Houghton added.

"And the answer is 'yes', we want to support as much as we possibly can and that's a way of showing our support.

"We've done it in the friendlies over the last few weeks and we certainly will do it on Saturday [in the Community Shield] as well."

Chelsea striker Fran Kirby, who could make her first appearance since November in Saturday's game at Wembley after recovering from Pericarditis, added: "I think it's definitely our intention to take the knee before the game.

"Sport is a really big empowering movement to relate to things like this. We need to show that we are supportive and that we are doing the right things, using our voice in a positive way, and really strive to make people aware of the situations.

"That's starting with us taking the knee on Saturday and that's something that I know a lot of the girls and myself are very passionate about doing, so we will definitely be doing that."

Reading's Carter, who signed from Arsenal this summer, said: "I'm expecting everyone to be taking knees for at least the first game of the season."

It is understood the Football Association - which runs the WSL, England's top division - will support any player who wishes to take a knee.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
More must be done to "create the kind of change that athletes, people and society want to see", says Aston Villa and England defender Anita Asante. Women's Super League players are set to take a knee this season to show support for the Black Lives Matter movement.

# data[].attributes.headline
Rangers FC supporting BLM movement but some fans are not happy about taking the knee etc.

# data[].attributes.subject
Rangers FC supporting BLM movement but some fans are not happy about taking the knee etc.

# data[].attributes.body
A lot of the fans post negative comments on social media towards the club taking this action.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
RANGERS defender Connor Goldson says the players are 'hurting' from the comments by some of their fans who disagree with their support towards the Black Lives Matter movement.

The 27-year-old was responding to more negative replies on social media from what he deemed to be a 'minority' of the Ibrox support.

The Light Blues took the knee during their Veolia Trophy games in France against Lyon and Nice and their decision to do so was met by divided opinion on social media.

Goldson shared a post earlier deeming the comments from the minority as 'disgusting but not surprising' whilst also suggesting education was required on the subject.

Taking to social media again this afternoon, Goldson shared a comment from a supporter who continued to disagree with his stance while also posting an emotional response against the individual.

Goldson wrote: "I'm not doing this for attention, or for anyone to feel sorry for me.

"But these are fans of OUR club. I know it's a minority and I'm not suggesting otherwise, however as a majority who stand by us we need to make a stand to be heard.

"What I will say is players see these comments and they hurt us!"
The Englishman had posted a defiant message to those opposing BLM, insisting this isn't about politics.
This morning he wrote: "Let's try again. The hate and ignorance in the comments of the last picture were disgusting but not surprising.

"This isn't about politics it's about equality!!! We all need educating, myself included!"

He accompanied the powerful post with a picture of himself taking the knee.

Fellow Gers star Joe Aribo backed up the big defender by commenting: "Leading the way big bro."

Fulham star Anthony Knockaert also praised Goldson by saying: "My friend for life."

It comes as yesterday cops launched a probe after Rangers ace Alfredo Morelos was branded a "b******" by a racist troll on social media.

The Ibrox striker was streaming an Instagram Live for fans when the vile slur was made around 6pm on Friday night.

One source, who reported the incident to police, told the Scottish Sun he found the comment "disgusting", adding: "I would dread to think what people have sent him privately."

Officers have now vowed to "thoroughly investigate" the offensive slur.
Keep u p to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Rangers stars read negative BLM comments and are hurting, says Connor Goldson

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
RANGERS defender Connor Goldson says the players are 'hurting' from the comments by some of their fans who disagree with their support towards the Black Lives Matter movement. The 27-year-old was responding to more negative replies on social media from what he deemed to be a 'minority' of the Ibrox support.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
LONDON (Reuters) - The English Premier League, the most popular domestic TV product in world sport, kicks off on Saturday having decided to replace the Black Lives Matter logo on players' shirts with a "No Room for Racism" patch.

The move is indicative of the delicate position many sports teams and organisations find themselves in as they seek to show support for victims of injustice and send a strong anti-racism message while fearing a backlash from those opposed to aligning with movements that some say have wider political aims.

On Thursday in the United States, the NFL restarted amid controversial scenes as some fans jeered during a moment of silence "dedicated to the ongoing fight for equality in our country" before the Kansas City Chiefs' game against the Houston Texans.

While the Texans players stayed in the locker room for performances of "Lift Every Voice And Sing" and "The Star-Spangled Banner", the Chiefs, the defending Super Bowl champions, stayed on the field during the anthems. One player, Alex Okafor, knelt with his fist raised.

The Miami Dolphins also announced they would stay in the locker room during the anthems for their game on Sunday.

When the Premier League restarted in June, the sight of all 22 players and the match officials taking the knee around the centre circle, with their names replaced by "Black Lives Matter" on their shirts, sent a powerful message of support in the wake of protests over the death of George Floyd while in police custody in Minneapolis in May.

They then wore BLM badges on their shirts for the remaining matches, with the game's governing body FIFA, which professes a 'zero-tolerance' approach to the display of any political messages, coming out in support.

In the months since, however, a divide has developed, with many people opposing what they see as the political aims of BLM while still asserting the need to protest against racism.

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters recently told a British Parliamentary committee: "We are drawing a clear distinction between a moral cause and a political movement."

Masters said on Thursday the change of badge came after discussions with players and would "build on the momentum created last season".

"Discrimination in any form, anywhere, is wholly unacceptable and No Room For Racism makes our zero-tolerance stance clear," Masters said.

"We will not stand still on this important issue and we will continue to work with our clubs, players and partners to address all prejudiced behaviour."

In one example of the differing positions, former Wolves and QPR midfielder Karly Henry, who is Black, voiced his opposition to the Premier League aligning with BLM in a tweeted earlier this summer:

"A new inclusive and politically-neutral anti-racism movement to follow and get behind is much needed. Black people's lives matter," he wrote. "The divisive BlackLivesMatter organisation, however, DOES NOT!"

AWARENESS

Also on Thursday, Michael Holding, the former West Indies pace bowler who is now a widely respected pundit, criticised the England, Australia and Pakistan teams for abandoning the gesture of "taking a knee" that England and West Indies players displayed showed in their series in July.

"I don't care about the politics behind Black Lives Matter, I care about those three words: black lives matter," Holding told Sky Sports.

"If you don't want to recognise the movement, then say that and don't come up with lame excuses. You have to keep the awareness going."

Australia captain Aaron Finch explained the teams' decision by saying: "The education around it is more important than the protest. I have spoken to (England captain) Eoin (Morgan) and we are not going to do specific gestures like it has happened in the past."

South Africa, which has its own particular history of sporting racism, has been embroiled in a national debate about whether "taking the knee" is appropriate.

Its 1995 Rugby World Cup-winning captain Francois Pienaar was criticised by many fans and even former team mates when he took the knee at a cricket fixture.

There was also a backlash when eight South African members of the English Premiership rugby team Sale Sharks side did not take a knee, while some other players did.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Premier League, NFL and cricket wrestle with BLM response

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
LONDON (Reuters) - The English Premier League, the most popular domestic TV product in world sport, kicks off on Saturday having decided to replace the Black Lives Matter logo on players' shirts with a "No Room for Racism" patch.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Pro14 players will be free to express themselves ahead of games after the league underlined its "rugby against racism" stance.

Many competitors in other sports have taken a knee before games to show support for the Black Lives Matter movement since elite sport returned after lockdown.

The Pro14 say players can decide on their own appropriate gestures.

There is no mention of Black Lives Matter in a statement issued by Pro14.

"This weekend ahead of the Guinness PRO14 restart games, two occurrences will precede the kick-off," the statement said.

"At each game a moment's silence will be observed to mark the loss of life suffered during the Covid-19 pandemic and to honour those who have worked on the frontline to protect us.

"After this a 'unity moment' will be observed to demonstrate that rugby stands united against racism and to emphasise the game's core values of solidarity and respect.

"Players will stand in a circular formation and during this time they are free to express themselves in a manner they deem appropriate.

"This Unity Moment will underline the message of rugby against racism across the territories that encompass the Guinness PRO14."

Dragons wing Ashton Hewitt highlighted racism within and rugby and society during lockdown.

His role has been praised by his team-mate and former Wales and British and Irish Lions hooker Richard Hibbard.

"Ashy's been very vocal with it all and very articulate," said Hibbard.

"I think he's been superb. Even when he's had people coming at him, he's been very articulate on the matter.

"It's important we show our support and show our support in the right way, not just for one weekend but moving forward."

Former Wales wing Nigel Walker, who has recently joined the Cardiff Blues board, believes players should be allowed to express their own opinions.

"It's a simple but also a powerful thing and when you see team-mates of all colour background saying we feel fundamentally people were created equally and should be treated equally and have equal opportunity, that is powerful," said Walker.

"That is only one element because the people who make the decisions have to act upon it.

"People have to be comfortable, but what I would say is if people want to take the knee they should not be prevented from doing so."

What the regions have said:
Dragons director of rugby Dean Ryan:
"I know the Pro14 and the WRU are keen that there is a more consistent approach. What we're keen on as Dragons is, like every challenge we have, we consult with our players.

"We've got players here who have passionate views and we're keen that those views are heard and appreciated by other people. This week is about understanding ourselves as well as taking guidance from other bodies."
Dragons and Wales hooker Richard Hibbard:
"We'll definitely have a chat about it this week - we haven't decided yet. We want it to be something that really matters, and not just for one weekend.

"It's going forward, it's classes, it's guest speakers, it is learning about stuff and it is important. And it's not just Black Lives Matter, it's anything to do with the BAME group. Everyone in a minority is affected and it's really important we grow as a group with it."

Cardiff Blues head coach John Mulvihill: "The Pro14 gathered information from all teams and countries in the league and we are all going to be quite similar in what we do.

"We will have a minute's silence for people who lost their lives and then we will have something on Black Lives Matter.

"For us though it goes a bit deeper than that. It will be basically rugby against racism. That is something we will have at the forefront of our minds for the rest of the season and beyond."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Pro14 players will be free to express themselves ahead of games after the league underlined its "rugby against racism" stance. Many competitors in other sports have taken a knee before games to show support for the Black Lives Matter movement since elite sport returned after lockdown.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The Premier League says its Black Lives Matter campaign is to send the message that it is unacceptable to treat black people differently to anyone else - and not an endorsement of a political movement.

A series of tweets from the Black Lives Matter UK account about Palestine has prompted criticism.

The Premier League said in a statement it was "aware of the risk posed by groups that seek to hijack popular causes to promote their own political views".

"These actions are entirely unwelcome and are rejected," it added.

After the tweets were posted on Sunday, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer told BBC Breakfast it was a "shame" the sentiment behind the Black Lives Matter movement was "getting tangled up with these organisational issues" and said it was "nonsense" for the group to call to "defund the police".

The Black Lives Matter movement has led to global protests against racism and police brutality following the death in the United States of George Floyd, an unarmed black man, while a police officer knelt on his neck.

The Premier League has shown its solidarity, with players' names replaced on the back of their shirts with 'Black Lives Matter' for the first 12 matches of the restarted season, and a Black Lives Matter badge will feature on all shirts for the rest of the campaign.

But while 'Black Lives Matter' has become the slogan behind the protests, Black Lives Matter also exists as a global organisation, founded in 2013, with several goals including to advocate against white supremacy and police violence towards black people.

In its statement, the Premier League said it stood alongside players, club and a wide range of football organisations who had "come together in recent weeks to reject racism and to show support for the message that black lives matter".

The league said "Black Lives Matter" had become an "expression of unity for people from all communities who believe it is unacceptable to treat black people differently to anyone else".

"In an unprecedented move, Premier League players from all 20 clubs united in solidarity with this message and the Premier League supported their request to replace their names on the back of playing shirts with 'Black Lives Matter'," the statement added.

"The Premier League offered this backing as we wholly agree with the players' single objective of eradicating racial prejudice wherever it exists. And we are unequivocal in the belief that there is no room for racism in our competition, football as a whole, or the wider community."

Explaining that "professional football bodies and the players and managers recognise the importance of the message that black lives matter", the league added: "We do not endorse any political organisation or movement, nor support any group that calls for violence or condones illegal activity.

"We are aware of the risk posed by groups that seek to hijack popular causes and campaigns to promote their own political views.

"These actions are entirely unwelcome and are rejected by the Premier League and all other professional football bodies, and they underline the importance of our sport coming together to declare a very clear position against prejudice. We want our message to be a positive one that recognises football has the power to bring people together."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
PL 'does not endorse political movements'

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Premier League says its Black Lives Matter campaign is to send the message that it is unacceptable to treat black people differently to anyone else - and not an endorsement of a political movement. A series of tweets from the Black Lives Matter UK account about Palestine has prompted criticism.

# data[].attributes.headline
GLOUCESTER RUGBY SUPPORT RUGBY AGAINST RACISM CAMPAIGN

# data[].attributes.subject
GLOUCESTER RUGBY SUPPORT RUGBY AGAINST RACISM CAMPAIGN

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Gloucester Rugby stands firmly against racism, discrimination and hatred of any kind. Equality and inclusion are at the heart of everything we do as a Club, and for that, we are proud.

As we approach the restart of Gallagher Premiership Rugby, each Club will take a moment to acknowledge the importance of equality in everyday society, as Rugby unites against racism.

On behalf of the Gloucester Rugby squad, we issue statement below.

"As Gloucester Rugby Players and active members of society we would like to release the following statement.

"We are united in our stance against racism and discrimination. As a team, we respect and encourage each other, as individuals, to educate ourselves and each other on the issues facing people of colour. The awareness raised by professional athletes plays an important role in showing support for this historical issue that still remains within society today. We believe education must be at the forefront of meaningful change.

"As we approach the restart of Rugby, we will take a moment to stand united against racism, discrimination and hatred of any kind. Participation in this moment signals that everyone is in support of an individual's choice to personally present their stance in a way that they deem appropriate. The individual expression of this support may differ, but the fundamental message is the same. Racism has no place in Rugby, our communities or our world."

Whilst the message is driven by the players themselves, we stand right by their side in the fight against racism.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Gloucester Rugby support Rugby against Racism campaign - Gloucester Rugby

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Gloucester Rugby stands firmly against racism, discrimination and hatred of any kind. Equality and inclusion are at the heart of everything we do as a Club, and for that, we are proud. As we approach the restart of Gallagher Premiership Rugby, each Club will take a moment to acknowledge the importance of equality in everyday [...]

# data[].attributes.headline
WNBA players walk off court during national anthem

# data[].attributes.subject
WNBA players walk off court during national anthem

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The New York Liberty and Seattle Storm made a statement before tipping off the WNBA season on Saturday at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida.
What should we do with racist sports team owners? | Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Both teams left the court and returned to their locker rooms during the pre-game playing of national anthem in protest of racial and social injustice, then held a 26-second moment of silence in memory of Breonna Taylor, the 26-year-old certified EMT who was shot to death by plainclothes police officers while asleep in her Louisville apartment in the early hours of 13 March.

ESPN (@espn)
As the national anthem was played, the @nyliberty and @seattlestorm walked off the floor as part of the social justice initiative. pic.twitter.com/VihH5X3Yzh

"We are dedicating this season to Breonna Taylor, an outstanding EMT who was murdered over 130 days ago in her home," Liberty point guard Layshia Clarendon said at mid-court alongside Storm star Breanna Stewart. "Breonna Taylor was dedicated and committed to uplifting everyone around here.
LA Sparks' Nneka Ogwumike: 'Our hope is that this isn't a moment but it is a movement'
"We are also dedicating this season to 'Say Her Name' campaign, a campaign committed to saying the names and fighting for justice of black women - black women are so often forgotten in this fight for justice, who don't have people marching in the streets for them.

"We will say her name. Sandra Bland. Atatiana Jefferson. Dominique Remy Fells. Breonna Taylor. We will be a voice for the voiceless."

Taylor's full name appeared on the back of both teams' jerseys during Saturday's game as part of a campaign that will honor female victims of police violence, including Sandra Bland and Vanessa Guillen.

Stewart, the Most Valuable Player of the regular season and finals in 2018, led the Storm to a 87-71 victory, finishing with 18 points, eight rebounds and four steals in her first WNBA game since helping Seattle win the 2018 championship, .

The 2020 WNBA season, delayed and shortened by the coronavirus pandemic, will be played in a bubble at the IMG Academy.

Stewart missed all of last season after tearing her achilles tendon while playing for her Russian club team Dynamo Kursk during the Euroleague Women championship game in April 2019.

Jewell Loyd scored 14 points and Sue Bird, who also missed the 2019 season because of a knee injury, added 11 points, hitting 3-of-5 from three-point range and dishing five assists for Seattle.

Sabrina Ionescu had 12 points, six rebounds and four assists in her WNBA debut. Ionescu, the No 1 pick in April's draft, was 4-of-17 shooting, including 0-of-8 from three-point range, and committed four turnovers.

Clarendon led the Liberty with 20 points.

Loyd hit a three-pointer and then converted a three-point play before Stewart made a layup to make it 34-26 and the Storm led the rest of the way.

Jordin Canada scored six points during a 14-4 run to open the fourth quarter that gave the Storm their largest lead when she found Stewart for a three-pointer that capped the spurt and made it 80-61 with 4:44 to play.

New York's Kia Nurse left the game early in the second quarter because of an ankle injury and did not return.
Topics

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
WNBA players walk off court during national anthem before season opener

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The New York Liberty and Seattle Storm made a statement before tipping off the WNBA season on Saturday at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida. What should we do with racist sports team owners?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Lewis Hamilton has demanded Ferrari take action in supporting Formula One's anti-racist stance, saying he believes every team in F1 must be held accountable in promoting the fight against racism.
Lewis Hamilton vows to spend life fighting racism after black power salute
Hamilton, who is F1's only black driver, gave the black power salute on the podium after winning the Styrian Grand Prix on Sunday and said he believed his fight against racism would be a lifelong struggle. Mercedes have changed their livery from silver to black this season and both their drivers wear black race suits, while the team have instigated a diversity programme to address the make-up of their personnel.

However while the drivers have collectively worn "End Racism" T-shirts on the grid at the past two races, the 35-year-old Hamilton was highly critical that their teams had not been more publicly proactive. "No other team has said a single thing," he said.

"We've seen Red Bull's mechanics take a knee, which is great. But publicly, as businesses and as teams, you look at Ferrari, who have thousands of people working with them - I've heard no word from Ferrari saying they hold themselves accountable. We need the teams to do that. Everyone needs to pull together."

Hamilton has been vocal in his support of the anti-racism and Black Lives Matter movements. He has established a commission in partnership with the Royal Academy of Engineering to investigate engaging young black people and encourage them into motor racing and engineering. He believes that a critical part of the struggle is publicly engaging with people.

"A lot of people don't know what the problem is and some people deny there is a problem," he said. "That is why I have put this commission together. Everyone has their opinion, but I really want to get to the bottom of it so when we put money towards something, we know it is going to change from the root cause."

Elsewhere, Racing Point have issued a robust response to the protest against their car launched by Renault after the Styrian GP. Racing Point's RP20 has been nicknamed "the pink Mercedes", because of its design similarities to last year's championship-winning car.

The team admit they have followed the Mercedes design but had broken no regulations in doing so.

Lewis Hamilton wins Styrian GP from pole after Ferraris collide on first lap

Renault protested about the car on Sunday night. The FIA judged the complaint admissible and is to investigate in the coming days. The protest centres on the brake ducts, components that are known as "listed parts" which must be designed by each individual team. The stewards have taken the brake ducts from the Racing Point RP20s used in Austria and requested Mercedes supply the same components from their 2019 car.

Racing Point issued a statement dismissing the protest. The team are, it read: "Extremely disappointed to see its results in the Styrian Grand Prix questioned by what it considers to be a misconceived and poorly informed protest. Any and all suggestion of wrongdoing is firmly rejected and the team will take all steps necessary to ensure the correct application of the regulations to the facts."
Topics

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
'Everyone needs to pull together': Lewis Hamilton urges Ferrari to act on racism

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Lewis Hamilton has demanded Ferrari take action in supporting Formula One's anti-racist stance, saying he believes every team in F1 must be held accountable in promoting the fight against racism.

# data[].attributes.body
Taking a knee: athletes protest against racism

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Taking a knee: athletes protest against racism around the world – in pictures

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Over the past few months, athletes around the world have been kneeling in support of Black Lives Matter and wearing the phrase on jerseys and T-shirts

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Premier League players continue to take a knee on 2020/21 opening weekend

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
No Room For Racism badges worn on sleeves, with Palace boss Roy Hodgson noting both that message and Black Lives Matter are vitally important

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
THE Premier League have confirmed players will have "Black Lives Matter" on the back of their shirt instead of their names when the season restarts.

It will be in effect for the opening 12 games of the restart, and when names return a BLM logo will feature on shirts for the rest of the season along with a badge thanking the NHS for their work during the coronavirus pandemic.

A statement from players at all 20 clubs read: "We, the Players, stand together with the singular objective of eradicating racial prejudice wherever it exists, to bring about a global society of inclusion, respect, and equal opportunities for All, regardless of their colour or creed.

"This symbol is a sign of unity from all Players, all Staff, all Clubs, all Match Officials and the Premier League #blacklivesmatter #playerstogether."

The Premier League will return on June 17 after every top-flight club approved the proposed matchday protocol.

And it is for that first round of fixtures, starting with Aston Villa vs Sheffield United and Manchester City vs Arsenal, that will have the kits proudly modified.

Players from across the league have already shown their support for the Black Lives Matter movement, kneeling during training sessions and even before games - such as Arsenal before their 3-2 loss at home to Brentford.

Premier League chiefs will also consult with leading players before confirming their Black Lives Matters stance.

They have already supported stars who decide to "take a knee" before or during matches.

Despite expectations a firm position would be agreed, club bosses agreed to leave detailed discussions to the league executive.

The club chiefs, meeting virtually for the 12th time since the Premier League was shut down in March, signalled their determination to show strong support for the worldwide campaign.

But it was felt it was vital clubs ensured their next steps met the wishes and message the players, who represent the public face of the league to millions of fans around the globe, want to send.

There are concerns any show of support for the movement would be pointless unless the league's action has already been backed by the players.

League chiefs spoke to representatives of the players at all 20 clubs, seeking their input and observations about potential measures.

These are understood to include a clear statement of the League's support for the campaign as part of a pre-match collective kneel, plus prominently messaging inside stadiums.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Premier League stars to have 'Black Lives Matter' instead of names on shirts when season restarts

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
THE Premier League have confirmed players will have "Black Lives Matter" on the back of their shirt instead of their names when the season restarts. It will be in effect for the opening 12 games of the restart, and when names return a BLM logo will feature on shirts for the rest of the season along with a badge thanking the NHS for their work during the coronavirus pandemic.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Super Bowl champions Kansas City Chiefs offered a symbolic gesture of support for racial injustice ahead of the NFL's first game of the season Thursday.

Before kickoff, the Chiefs stood with locked arms along their goal line as the national anthem was played on screens at Arrowhead Stadium.

At least one Kansas City player, defensive end Alex Okafor, appeared to kneel, and the Houston Texans remained in the locker room.

Prior to the anthem, Alicia Keys sang "Lift Every Voice and Sing" through a video feed.

"Lift Every Voice and Sing" has often been referred to as the Black national anthem and will be played before every Week 1 game this season.

When the Texans returned to the field to lock arms with the Chiefs in a show of unity, some Chiefs fans were heard booing and performed the celebratory "Arrowhead Chop."

After Kansas City's 34-20 victory, star Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes thanked the Texans and their standout QB Deshaun Watson for that pre-game moment.

"Obviously with everything going on in this country, we wanted to show that we're unified as a league and we're not going to let playing football distract us from what we're doing, making change to this world," a masked Mahomes told NBC Sports moments after the final gun.

Mahomes didn't immediately mention the booing, but Houston defensive end J.J. Watt called the crowd's disapproval "unfortunate."

"The moment of unity I personally thought was good," Watt said.

"I mean the booing during that moment was unfortunate. I don't fully understand that. There was no flag involved. There was nothing involved other than two teams coming together to show unity."

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas conceded there was booing over the calls for unity, but insisted his constituents embrace calls for social justice.

"We're a good city of good people. I heard boos too," Lucas tweeted late Thursday night.

"But we also have hundreds of thousands more around here who respect the message the players are sharing; who respect the rights of our players and people to voice a strong message and who are working to make us better each day."

The chopping gesture is not banned by the team but is under review as the Chiefs consult with Indigenous leaders on how to better celebrate American Indian cultures without presenting it in stereotypical or derogatory manners.

The team last month officially banned headdresses and face paint that appropriates American Indian culture.

Several Miami Dolphins players, including veteran Bobby McCain and linebacker Elandon Roberts, released a video that said they would stay inside for the "publicity parade," calling the decision to play the song a "way to save face."

"If you speak up for change, I'll shut up and play," McCain said in the video, obtained by ESPN.

Dolphins coach Brian Flores appeared at the end of the video in a t-shirt that read "Vote" across his chest.

"Before the media starts wondering and guessing, they just answered all your questions," Flores said. "We'll just stay inside."

Critics told NBC News in July, after the NFL made the public announcement about the song playing this season, that the gesture falls short of meaningful support for racial justice initiatives. The move is "pandering" Rodney Coates, a football fan and sociologist and a professor at Miami University in Ohio, said.

"There are so many ways to show its commitment," Coates said. "If it were serious it would open pathways for opportunities in a number of ways. But a song? No."

The NFL kicked off its 101st season Thursday night amid a pandemic, raging wildfires and ongoing protests for racial justice. The game looked and sounded different from any other in recent memory.

The Chiefs allowed only a smattering of socially distanced fans into their stadium, long regarded as one of the NFL's loudest and most raucous.

Because of the coronavirus, only 15,895 spectators, as announced by the team, were allowed in the stands, a little more than 20 percent of Arrowhead's capacity of more than 76,000.

Even with so few fans in attendance, Mahomes said he was grateful for even that shred of normalcy.

"It's fun to be back out here (after) the off-season that we had as a world, as a nation, and to be doing something normal again," Mahomes said. "Obviously we got to have some fans out here."

The rest of Week 1 will kick off Sunday, and fans will see games that will look totally foreign to any ever played before this season.

The Chiefs are among only a handful of teams planning to allow any paid spectators.

Fanless games will look particularly jarring when the Las Vegas Raiders, the Los Angeles Rams and the Los Angeles Chargers play in their glimmering, brand new stadiums.

The Rams play host to the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday ( 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC) at sparkling SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. The Rams' housemates, the Chargers, get their first chance to play at empty SoFi Stadium, against Kansas City, a week from Sunday.

This season will be the Raiders' first in Las Vegas, and their home opener at Allegiant Stadium is set for "Monday Night Football" on Sept. 21 against the New Orleans Saints.

The New York Giants and the New York Jets, playing in America's largest metropolitan region, have no immediate plans to allow any spectators into 10-year-old MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

The San Francisco 49ers are scheduled to open the season Sunday against the visiting Arizona Cardinals, but league officials are keeping a close eye on air quality in the Bay Area, which has been severely compromised by raging wildfires.

San Francisco coach Kyle Shanahan this week compared the setting to an apocalyptic state straight out of " The Book of Eli."

More than five dozen NFL players opted out of the 2020 season because of concerns over the virus, which has killed more than 190,000 people in the U.S.

Kansas City offensive lineman Laurent Duvernay-Tardif, a medical school graduate, is among those taking the season off. He is spending the fall working at a long-term care facility in his native Canada in hope of treating elderly patients most at risk of COVID-19.

All-time great quarterback Tom Brady will lead the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in what will be a strange sight for even the most casual NFL fan.

Brady, 43, broke into the league in 2000 with the New England Patriots and led the franchise to nine Super Bowls, winning six of them.

He signed with Tampa Bay in March and, despite a couple of odd bumps in the off-season road, will open his Bucs career Sunday against another all-time great quarterback, Drew Brees, and the Saints.

Dallas running back Ezekiel Elliott said he expects some players on his team to kneel for the national anthem this season in protest of police brutality and systemic racism. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has long taken an emphatic anti-kneeling posture.

It's not clear how the Black Lives Matter movement will materialize in other manners this season, but the social justice push will surely have an increased presence in the league in which Colin Kaepernick once played.

The nation has taken a renewed look at systemic racism since the death of George Floyd in the custody of Minneapolis police on May 25. A Black Lives Matter flag flies over the 49ers' home, Levi's Stadium, in Santa Clara, California.

The Washington Football Team will play under that generic moniker after announcing in July that it would remove its name, which had long been identified as racist toward Native Americans.

Washington hopes to have a new name by the 2021 season.

The Chiefs this offseason also announced that they would ban fans from wearing faux-Native American headdresses or offensive face paint to home games.

This will be the first season of a new playoff format that will include 14 teams in the postseason tournament, up from 12.

The eight division winners, four in each conference, will qualify along with six wild-card entrants, three each in NFC and the AFC.

The first weekend of postseason play will include 12 teams - all contending clubs, minus the No. 1 seed in each conference - and they will play down to six survivors. The remaining teams and the top two seeds will play for two more weekends to determine who plays in Super Bowl 55, which is set for Feb. 7 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
NFL season kicks off with nod to social injustice at Chiefs-Texans contest

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Super Bowl champions Kansas City Chiefs offered a symbolic gesture of support for racial injustice ahead of the NFL's first game of the season Thursday. Before kickoff, the Chiefs stood with locked arms along their goal line as the national anthem was played on screens at Arrowhead Stadium.

# data[].attributes.headline
The NBA approach - embrace the protests. 

# data[].attributes.subject
The NBA approach - embrace the protests. 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
If there is one thing clear about the current NBA, it is that it is no longer the league of David Stern. As a businessman, the league's former commissioner was a visionary, building a booming operation that now reaches around the globe. But on social issues he stumbled, creating policies that almost seemed designed to make a league of mostly African American players appear palatable to a white audience.

It was Stern, after all, who 11 years ago created professional sports' first sideline dress code that he called "business casual". It came at a time when a phrase thrown around the league was "middle-class values," which was basically code for "white values". And while many of those using these words would never consider themselves to be tone deaf to the struggles of people of color, their zeal to keep the money machine going clouded a deeper social understanding.

Who knows how Stern would have handled today's climate of athlete activism. Perhaps he would have embraced the actions of players such as Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Paul. Times are different and Black Lives Matter has given many sports stars a voice they lacked a decade ago. But the current commissioner, Adam Silver, does appear to understand his players. The culture that he is creating around the NBA is one of tolerance and openness rather than catering to white corporate interests. A glimpse into his thinking came early in his tenure when he moved quickly to force out Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling after Sterling was recorded making racist comments. There was a strong sense around the NBA that Stern would not have done the same.

Now the first sports league to introduce business casual has become the first pro sports league to open a conversation with their players about issues such as police shootings and racial inequality. On Wednesday the NBA and NBA Players Association sent a letter to their players saying they want a discussion about the problems raised by Anthony, James, Wade at the ESPYs this summer.

"The league and players association, working together have begun developing substantive ways for us to come together and take meaningful action," the letter signed by Silver and players association president Michele Roberts said. "These ideas are based on the actions many of you have already taken or supported, including convening community conversations in NBA markets to engage young people, parents, community leaders and law enforcement in a candid dialogue, using our game to bring people together and build bonds of trust in our communities; and supporting mentoring and career development programs that help bring economic opportunity to young people of color."

Rather than passively tolerate the protests of their players the way the NFL has done with the movement started by Colin Kaepernick, or condemning them as US Soccer has done with Megan Rapinoe, the NBA is welcoming the discussion. And while the league's decision is undoubtedly influenced by the fact that many of the NBA's players will favor some form of dissent during the anthem, Silver is drawing a blueprint for other commissioners and association heads to follow.

For too long the leaders of sports leagues have run from the uncomfortable voice of protest, fearful of upsetting advertisers. Harebrained edicts like business casual and the NFL player conduct policy were born from the terror that non-white players were out-of-control and therefore alarming sponsors. Instead of hiding from a revolution Silver is searching for ways his league can be part of the solution to real problems.

Last week, Mark Anthony Neal, a professor of African and African American studies at Duke University, told the Guardian that last year's strike by Missouri football players - which resulted in the resignation of the school's president - has given athletes a new power. They realize they can make change with their celebrity. Why wouldn't a sports league want to aid their players in raising awareness? US sports organizations should be leaping at the opportunity to showcase their athletes as intelligent, caring people and not just magnificently-conditioned robots carrying out their coaches' game plan.

Back when he invented business casual, Stern mocked the players who objected, directing an especially-pointed dig at the Denver Nuggets Marcus Camby, who had suggested that if the commissioner wanted his players dressed a certain way the league should provide a clothing stipend.

"We don't know where the cutoff is - maybe if you earn less than $8m you'll get a scholarship from the commissioner," Stern said at the time.

The NBA has moved a long way in 11 years. Maybe the rest of sports can come along too.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
By accepting racial protest, the NBA draws a blueprint for other sports

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
For too long, the league was interested in making itself palatable for a white audience. Under Adam Silver it is listening to its black players

# data[].attributes.body
The first athlete to protest police brutality was a college women's basketball player, FYI.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The St. Louis Rams, Derrick Rose, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, the women's hoops teams at Notre Dame and Berkeley... none of these folks can say that they were the first athlete to bring the #BlackLivesMatter movement into the world of sports. That was Knox College's Ariyana Smith. On Saturday, November 29, before a game against Fontbonne University in Clayton, Missouri, Ms. Smith made the now iconic "hands up, don't shoot" gesture during the national anthem before walking toward the American flag. She then went prone on the floor for four and a half minutes, preventing the game from getting under way. It was four and a half minutes because Ferguson's Michael Brown lay in the street for four and a half hours after being killed. Since that time, Ms. Smith has taken a crash course in the blessing and burden of what it means to be an "activist athlete." I was able to speak to Smith. Her experience is well worth reading and sharing by both activists and athletes alike.

Dave Zirin: At what point did you make the decision that an on-court display of activism was something you were going to do in Clayton, Missouri?

Ariyana Smith: Essentially, about a week and a half before our game, the athletic director called us into a meeting and said, "Hey, your safety is all of our concern, and we're looking to see if we're going to reschedule the Fontbonne game at Knox, or whether we'll play at a neutral site so, we'll get back to you all." I knew we were playing in Missouri, but now I wondered: How far is Fotnbonne University from Ferguson? It turns out Clayton is actually in St. Louis, only about twenty minutes away from Ferguson. I assumed we're going to have a further conversation about what's going on, the implications of it, the gravity of what this means. There was never that conversation. We were never told we were going to be that close to Ferguson. We were never told that, "Hey, the National Guard has been deployed here within the past week." We were never even given that information.

So I just waited. I had already been following the protests. I had been following the people on the ground, and I had been following the live stream and I was looking at the photos. And when I heard that [a friend named] Patrick didn't stand during the national anthem during our last game, I felt guilty. Because while I was standing during the national anthem, it felt wrong and I knew that it felt wrong to stand and salute. So right then I said, "This is what I can do. This is something I can do. You know, it's not much, but I can make a gesture." At same time, I was still waiting to hear back from the athletics department to see if we were even going to be in Missouri. It comes to Saturday and again, nothing was said. So I had to do something. We arrived in Clayton. We went onto the court. I took off my warm-up jersey. I raised my hand in the air, knelt at the flag and on the last line of the national anthem I collapsed to the ground, and I lay there for four and a half minutes. While I lay there the trainer came over and tried to shake me and tried to get me to stand up. They were asking me if I was OK. My coach walked over and all she said to me was, "Ariyana, you need to move. The ref won't start the game until you move." After four and a half minutes, I stood and raised the black power salute. I held that for thirty seconds and continued to walk out of the gym with my fist still raised.

DZ: Can you talk a little bit about the thoughts that were going through your mind during those four and a half minutes?

AS: I tried to tried to think what I was down there for. And what being down there on the floor meant. Being on the ground... it was symbolic. It was a symbolic death. And I think the reactions to that demonstration were very telling. I think the point of what I did was to demonstrate why I felt and still feel so stifled [at Knox]... why I feel like I'm not being heard. I had been telling the athletics department, I had been telling Knox College in general, we are not doing enough. We give lip service to the idea of diversity. We give lip service to the idea of freedom of expression and freedom to flourish. That's actually our school's tagline, it's "freedom to flourish." We give lip service to those things, but when it comes down to supporting students in the ways we need to be supported, not just when we're basketball players but supporting us when we take off our uniforms, that doesn't happen. Supporting us as academics, supporting us as black people, as survivors of sexual assault. That support isn't happening and marginalized voices are not being heard. So I had to do a physical demonstration.

DZ: There have been some conflicting reports about what occurred after you left that gym. Can you give the narrative about what actually took place?

AS: So right after the game my coaches would not look at me. My teammates kind of glanced at me and looked away. But there were some people who came up and said, "I think what you did was brave. I'm not brave enough to do what you did right now, but I really want to thank you for what you did." There were even some people who reached out to say yes, this was a good thing. Come Monday I received a text that said I needed to be in the athletic director's office at 7:45 am. And practice is at 8 am. So I was thinking this is going to be a pretty quick meeting. And I told my teammates, "Well, I'm having a meeting and I'll let you know how it goes." Essentially Chad Eisele, the athletics director said, "Now, typically when a player leaves the game they are typically indefinitely suspended from further athletic participation." And then he said, "But I will let you know that there is a such a thing as a purposeful disruption. Do you think this was a purposeful disruption?"

And I said, "That's an insulting question, Chad." And I said, "You make the call [about whether to suspend me], Chad. You make the call." And so he said, "With that being said, you are indefinitely suspended from further athletic participation. And we'll get back to you on Thursday." So that is what I was told. Indefinite suspension, get back to me on Thursday. So I went downstairs and I was going to inform my teammates. Not even thirty seconds later my coach, Emily Cline, walked up to me and said, "You need to leave." I said, "I don't need to leave, I haven't done anything. We have open practices. I can just stand in the hallway." She said, "Either you leave or I call security." So she had me escorted out of the building. Now my teammates saw that and said, "Hey, wait a minute. Why is she suspended? And would you escort her out of the building like that?" They were like, "Did you think she was going to be violent? And then why would you think that?" I actually asked one of the trainers, "Do you think I'm going to get violent right now? And why are you making that assumption about me?"

DZ: How did you get reinstituted on the team?

AS: Now the administration was flailing back and forth. Because they had been involved in this. What was told to me was that the suspension was at the coach's discretion under the approval of the athletic director and it went past the president's desk. So [Knox College] President Theresa Amott was also involved in this decision to suspend. The president of the institution that is purportedly the home of the underground railroad, abolitionist history, you know, says, "freedom to flourish" and "we support diversity" and we're one community, but she let this decision go through. So I think that in and of itself says a lot about what the administration actually values, what our athletic department actually values, versus what they've been saying.

DZ: Why did they rescind the suspension then?

AS: Because it went to the media. If this was just internal, I don't think they would've reversed the decision. [But] I haven't returned to the team, because I know that is an environment that is not conducive to my growth. It's not a space where I'll be able to operate healthily. It's just not a space to have to endure treatment from racists and people who have demonstrated that they don't care to learn about who you are and what struggles you face in life. It's just not a really healthy environment right now. I don't want to return to that.

DZ: Have your teammates had your back through this?

AS: Yeah, a lot of my teammates have really stepped up. Right after they learned that I was suspended, we had a meeting at my house where everybody came to express their support and say, "Whatever you need us to do, we'll do it." But I told them, "Don't do it because I want you to do it. Do what you want to do. Whatever you think is wrong in here, whatever you think is wrong about this, you should address that for yourself. I don't want to dictate how you respond to it."

[At the next game] they linked hands, raised them in the air, and they had my initials and my jersey number written on their wristbands. I mean, I think in all of this I was hoping that the attention wouldn't necessarily be on me. I'm just glad to see the larger collective action. I was hoping to spark larger collective action.

DZ: You did this at Knox college, which is obviously not a sports factory. The coach and AD come down on you like a ton of bricks, and now you got entire teams at places like Notre Dame and Berkeley, real sports factories, all wearing "I Can't Breathe" shirts, or the names of people killed by the police, and they're getting applauded by their coaches and athletic directors. How does that feel?

AS: It gives me hope. It gives me hope because now these coaches and players have stepped out to say, "Hey, this is wrong." But now that they've made a statement, I hope they follow up on it. When it comes down to it, yeah, they may be happy with a shirt, but what if one of their players decided to protest on the street? Would the support be as strong? I'm happy to see that there are positive responses but I'm not sure about the intensity of the support, if that makes sense. You know, I'm just a person who's willing to make sacrifices, who's willing to take risks to see if larger conversations can be sparked. I'm willing to be the person to ask the first question with hopes that there are other people around me that are likeminded. Just like my teammates who said, "I think that what she did was great, but I wasn't ready just yet." I'm glad that all these athletes are coming out to do this. Because now it's right in front of everyone's faces. Now you have to address it, you have to acknowledge it.

DZ: Last question, do you have any sports and politics heroes? Who are political athletes whom today you've looked to as a role model or inspired you to do what you did?

AS: Yeah. I'm actually trying to brush up on my history. Because that wasn't something that was the focus during my high school or primary school education but in passing I have heard the words of Muhammad Ali and the stances that he took while he was a boxer. I remember in seventh grade flipping passed the 1968 Olympics, the picture of Tommy Smith and John Carlos. Honestly, I wouldn't have been able to tell you their names before now. But those are images that I remember. I remember back in high school, hearing about [NFL punter] Chris Kluwe and what he was doing to speak out against what was going on in his field. So those are just some of the names. It was never a conscious, "Ah yes, this is someone I want to be." Just looking at this and seeing the work that they were doing, as athletes, and as people. I think now that those moments remind me that, yes, this is something that is not new. This hasn't happened often in our times. But there are patterns of athlete activism. This is not without precedent.

Thanks to Talal Ansari for transcription assistance.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Interview With Ariyana Smith: The First Athlete Activist of #BlackLivesMatter

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Ariyana Smith lay on the court for four and a half minutes before her team's game on November 29th. She did not know that she would be the first in a historic change of athletes speaking out against police violence.