Stevens, Grousbeck release statements supporting protests, players

Boston Celtics head coach Brad Stevens and lead governor Wyc Grousbeck released statements in support of social justice and their protesting players.

Boston Celtics head coach Brad Stevens has been taking an increasingly vocal role in supporting the players of the team in their protests against the killing of George Floyd, and released a statement Thursday night to acknowledge his own responsibilities beyond simply supporting them.

The Indiana native released a short video posted on the team’s official Twitter and Instagram accounts that featured Stevens’ message, which began with a simple statement.

“Black lives matter,” began Stevens, “and we have a duty to eliminate systemic racism and create long-term sustainable change.”

“Our players have made their voices heard,” he continued. “They are leading with passion, and courage. They represent the very best of Celtic pride. We’re all in this together. As a husband, a father, a colleague, a friend and a coach, I have a responsibility to listen, to learn, to engage, to participate — and to act.”

The message of not only solidarity with players such as Jaylen Brown, Marcus Smart, Enes Kanter, Vincent Poirier and others protesting injustice, but of his duty to join them in the struggle to end systemic racism is a refreshing one.

Earlier in the day, lead Celtics Governor Wyc Grousbeck also released a short video message, affirming the organization is committed to helping make a change in the struggle espoused by the players and coach Stevens.

“I’m Wyc Grousbeck of the Boston Celtics,” offered the team co-owner.

“Sometimes things just need to be said out loud. A statement needs to be made. Black lives matter. It’s time for us all to get together, and get rid of racism once and for all.”

While it is probably unrealistic that we will rid ourselves of a four-centuries-old problem entirely in the short term, the commitment of the organization from top to bottom is the sort of buy-in needed from civil society to begin moving towards Grousbeck’s lofty endpoint, and a safer country for all its citizens.

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