The NAACP will host a virtual town hall on Thursday at 6 p.m. ET, centering on sports as a microcosm of society and the role of leagues and athletes in dismantling structural inequalities.
Moderated by sportscaster, Mike Hill, and featuring author, Bill Rhoden, analyst, Maria Taylor, along with current and former NFL players, the conversation will focus on the relationship between football and the nation's pursuit to live up to its ideals of freedom and justice.
"Through the stifling grip of Jim Crow segregation, the aspiration of the Civil Rights movement, the inspiring emergence of African American economic and political power, and the continued and exhausting fight for fair and equal treatment, football has always reflected the challenges seen in the larger society," said Derrick Johnson, president and CEO of the NAACP.
The discussion will be immediately preceded at 5 p.m. ET by a virtual screening of the NFL Network documentary about Fritz Pollard, the first Black NFL player.
Fritz Pollard: A Forgotten Man tells the story of an individual who refused to be defined by his time, but instead forced the National Football League and the larger society to accommodate the fullness of his potential.
The virtual screening and town hall discussion will be streamed LIVE on naacp.org/call-to-action and simulcast on NAACP and NFL social media platforms.
"A Forgotten Man underscores Fritz Pollard's legacy and his integral role in the history of the National Football League," said Hans Schroeder, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of NFL Media. "NFL Network is proud to share this story and are excited to further engage the entire NFL family in dialogue to address systemic racism and social injustices."
This event will kick off a series of events in commemoration of Juneteenth including a Virtual Family Reunion.
To RSVP and more information visit naacp.org.
