New England Patriots running back James White told reporters he anticipates teammates will peacefully protest in wake of the death of George Floyd. White didn’t specify how the Patriots might protest, but he thinks some of the players will do something.
Floyd died in police custody after a police officer rested his knee upon Floyd’s back and neck for almost nine minutes. His death has sparked international protests against racial injustice. The Patriots have gotten involved, with Robert Kraft donating $1 million to local causes for social justice and the McCourty twins joining in the activism online. Bill Belichick also invited an ALCU of Massachusetts director, Rashaan Hall, for a digital lecture.
It seems the Patriots are maintain open communication about the issue.
Patriots RB James White, on a video conference with 41 overall participants, flashes a smile. White fielded questions on team discussions following George Floyd’s death, saying that while no decision has been made, he is sure some players will peacefully protest in some fashion. pic.twitter.com/WG6U1kL7GC
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) June 11, 2020
New England participated in the peaceful national anthem protests around the NFL in 2018. At the time, Brandin Cooks, James White, Malcolm Butler, Stephon Gilmore, Duron Harmon, Devin McCourty, Malcom Brown, Trey Flowers, Brandon Bolden, Lawrence Guy, Alan Branch and Elandon Roberts were among the Patriots who kneeled during the anthem to promote unity and racial equality.
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