Contrary to our and Jemele Hill's expectations, a number of NFL owners are speaking out against neo- fascist racist Donald "Rump" Trump's vulgar and un- American comments in Alabama on Friday and subsequently about players who protest police violence in African American communities.
New England Patriots owner (and Rump supporter) Robert Kraft (click on image to enlarge):
Statement from #Patriots Chairman & CEO Robert Kraft: pic.twitter.com/f5DJeK0Woj— New England Patriots (@Patriots) September 24, 2017
San Francisco 49ers CEO Jed York:
— Jed York (@JedYork) September 23, 2017
New York Giants owners John Mara and Steve Tisch:
NY @Giants call POTUS comments "inappropriate, offensive and divisive" pic.twitter.com/rfSuiJSjP5— Jim Sciutto (@jimsciutto) September 23, 2017
Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross (click on image to enlarge):
Statement from Miami Dolphins Owner and Founder of Ross Initiative in Sports for Equality (RISE) Stephen Ross. pic.twitter.com/6W3mXwJO6M— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) September 23, 2017
Green Bay Packers president and CEO Mark Murphy:
"It's unfortunate that the President decided to use his immense platform to make divisive and offensive statements about our players and the NFL. We strongly believe that players are leaders in our communities and positive influences. They have achieved their positions through tremendous work and dedication and should be celebrated for their success and positive impact. We believe it is important to support any of our players who choose to peacefully express themselves with the hope of change for good. As Americans, we are fortunate to be able to speak openly and freely."
Baltimore Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti:
Statement from Owner Steve Bisciotti. pic.twitter.com/bdKWJ4UpCy— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) September 24, 2017
Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank (click on image to enlarge):
Expect to see widespread displays of solidarity today with Colin Kaepernick and other players who have taken a position of conscience and exercised their rights as American citizens (like this).
UPDATE: Welp, looks like just about every team owner has come out for the players' constitutional rights and against Rump's authoritarian claptrap.
