Roger Goodell and the National Football League released a strong statement on Friday, condemning racism and apologizing to it’s players for not listening to them.
The statement was released on the NFL’s official Twitter account:
“We the National Football League, condemn racism and the systematic oppression of black people,” Goodell said. “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.
Goodell noted that it has been a difficult time for the country, in particular black Americans, and offered his condolences to the families of George, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and “all the families who have endured police brutality.”
“Without black players there would be no National Football League,” Goodell said. “And the protests around the country are emblematic of the centuries of silence inequality and oppression of black players, coaches, fans and staff.”Goodell said he will be reaching out to players and others who have spoken out on these issues to see “how we can improve and go forward for a better and more united NFL family.”
