The Indianapolis Colts released a statement regarding the recent events hitting the country on Sunday, but head coach Frank Reich felt responsible to give his own thoughts on the matters.
Reich opened his conference call with the media Monday morning with the following statement:
“Injustice. Few things stir the human heart and soul like injustice.
When we see it, feel it, experience it, it’s heartwrenching. It’s not enough for a person who looks like m to say, ‘I’m not racist.’ This kind of talk and thinking typically lends itself to a posture of neutrality, indifference, passivity. It’s easy to be silent and do nothing when it doesn’t directly impact you.
This attitude simply does not evoke any conviction about doing what is right and standing up for the inherent dignity and rights of all people—no matter the color of their skin. I stand firmly behind the Colts’ statement and in particular the phrase that says ‘We abhor racism.’ Racism is vile, deplorable and detestable. There’s no form of it that is acceptable and in no way can it be justified.
Our black community has bore the brunt of this far too long. I believe that I—we—all have a personal responsibility to speak up and act in ways that build each other up, not tear each other down. I believe each one of us can make a difference if we’re willing to grow personally and display the courage necessary for us to take steps of progress in this most important of issues.
Just felt compelled to make a statement.
Just cannot be silent. Wanna be proactive, and wanna do my part and feel responsible.”