Nick Saban and the Alabama Crimson Tide have usually limited themselves to statements from coaches and staff regarding political or societal issues. However, a little over a month after posting a video encouraging people to wear a mask to help mitigate the spread of the Coronavirus, they have published a video with a powerful message in support of the ongoing ‘Black Lives Matter’ movement.
The video, which was written by senior offensive tackle Alex Leatherwood, features Alabama football players of all races. Players such as Mac Jones, Jayen Waddle, DeVonta Smith, Cam Latu and more were seen and heard in the video.
Nick Saban makes multiple appearances in the video.
“Until I listen with an open heart and mind, I can’t understand his experience and his pain,” says Saban.
This video comes at a time where college football, race and the political spectrum have crossed paths, yet again, in their historical, complicated and oftentimes troublesome relation ship.
It was recently announced that the SEC would no longer be holding any form of athletic championship in the state of Mississippi because of ties to the Confederacy found within their flag.
While that has received mixed reactions from Mississippi denizens, Mississippi State’s standout running back Kylin Hill made it known that he does not support the state’s flag and won’t represent the state and will refuse to play.
The statement made by Alabama is a strong one that will be politicized by may, but the message throughout the video is apolitical.
As written by Leatherwood, “All lives can’t matter until Black lives matter.”
You can watch the video below.
“In this moment in history, we can’t be silent.” pic.twitter.com/YF4ndJSpa0
— Alabama Football (@AlabamaFTBL) June 25, 2020