As protesters flood the streets across the nation calling for an end to racism and police brutality, the NFL is adding a new tradition ahead of Week One games this season to honor the movement.
The NFL announced Thursday the song “Lift Ev’ry Voice And Sing,” the Black national anthem, will be played ahead of the “Star-Spangled Banner” prior to games.
Names of victims of police violence may also be added to jerseys or helmets, but that decision is not finalized.
The move follows the death of George Floyd which sparked nationwide demonstrations against racial injustice.
A group of NFL players previously posted a video message urging NFL officials to apologize for “silencing our players from peacefully protesting,” as IJR previously reported. The video was released in response to the league’s previous move to silence former NFL player Colin Kaepernick and others who joined him.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell responded to the backlash on June 5.
“We, the National Football League, admit we were wrong for not listening to NFL players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest,” Goodell said.
The NFL also announced the creation of a $250 million fund to combat racism.
“The NFL is growing our social justice efforts through a 10-year total $250 million fund to combat systemic racism and support the battle against the ongoing and historic injustices faced by African-Americans,” the league said in a statement.
It added, “The NFL and our clubs will continue to work collaboratively with NFL players to support programs to address criminal justice reform, police reforms, and economic and educational advancement.”
One team in particular has received backlash for its name.
FedEx, title sponsor of the Washington Redskins’ stadium, is requesting the team change its name as investors are urging the company to separate itself from the league.
As of Thursday afternoon, Nike has also removed the Washington team’s merchandise from its website.
