Sport and Societal Values

Teammates have begun to kneel with Colin Kaepernick

On September 8th of 2016, we discussed sport and societal values in my "American Sport in the 21st Century" Class. We discussed how one's participation in sport can contribute to norms, values and social behavior. We also discussed the platform of professional athletes, how they can be role models and have their voice be heard. Colin Kaepernick is an example of this, many fans noticed his decision to kneel during the National Anthem and this brought plenty of attention within the media, whether it was good or bad. At first, one could have been disrespected by this movement, because many people have fought for the flag as it represents freedom to many Americans. However, Mr. Kaepernick explained how he was kneeling to represent oppression towards African Americans and how their needs to be more equality, witch is an American Societal Value that we discussed in class.

Houston Rockets and New York Knicks lock arms during National Anthem

The first week of NBA preseason did not consist of any national anthem protests. However, players from different teams linked arms to show unity. The NBA has taken significant steps in increasing their social awareness. They are establishing community conversations, building bridges through basketball and mentoring and economic empowerment. The Chicago Bulls, LA Lakers and Charlotte Hornets have established community engagements. (Lombardo, 2016)

The NBA has established the programs are to avoid protests and bring more people within the commnity together. On Oct. 25, the Bulls are partnering with the Chicago Police Department. They are also partnering with the Chicago Youth Association, “Becoming A Man” program. The Bulls will host a youth basketball tournament for local kids.The league and the organization have established that the goals of the event are not only to engage the youth, but to bring together the community and the police department to create a safer community.

http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Journal/Issues/2016/10/10/Leagues-and-Governing-Bodies/NBA-protests.aspx