Yesterday, we witnessed history.
The NBA, WNBA, and MLB boycotted their season game, using their platforms to raise awareness on racial injustice following the shooting of Jacob Blake. This is only the latest demonstration in a rich history of athletes flexing their political might.
Another notable demonstration of the growing intersection between sports and politics is the increased inclusion of athletes at party conventions. Since the 1990s, more than a dozen athletes have spoken at party conventions, bringing to mind former NFL player and HUD Secretary Jack Kemp’s 1992 Republican National Convention speech, Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson leading the Pledge of Allegiance at the 2008 Democratic National Convention, and NBA Hall of Famer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s memorable 2016 DNC address.
Last week’s 2020 DNC included professional soccer player and LGBTQ rights and equal pay activist Megan Rapinoe, who spoke with first responders about their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 2020 DNC also included basketball player Steph Curry and his family, who offered a memorable endorsement of Vice President Joe Biden. During their endorsement, they addressed the significance of Sen. Kamala Harris’ historic selection and the importance of voting.
This week’s 2020 RNC featured a number of former NFL players, including Jack Brewer and Burgess Owens. Former NFL running back Herschel Walker was also featured, discussing the National Anthem protests and his 37-year personal relationship with President Donald Trump.
As athletes continue to establish their voices on political stages and lean into their role as activists, we expect to see increased pressure on leagues and sponsors to support player-led social justice initiatives, more in-game activism, and more boycotts among players in an effort to create sustainable change on the issues affecting their communities.
