NFL Makes 10-year, $250 Million Commitment to Fight Systemic Racism, Injustice

It looks like the NFL is putting its money where its mouth is.

The NFL is committing $250 million over the next ten years towards social justice initiatives and the fight against system racism, the league announced Thursday.

Specifically, the league will work alongside players to “support programs to address criminal justice reform, police reforms, and economic and educational advancement.”

The statement also said the league will use the NFL Network and its other media properties to “place an emphasis on raising awareness and promoting education of social justice issues” to fans and assist in creating unity.

The announcement comes a week after Commissioner Roger Goodell released a video apologizing for not listening to players concerns in the past, and promising to be an agent of change for the African-American community.

We, the NFL, condemn racism and the systematic oppression of Black People. We, the NFL, admit we were wrong for not listening to NFL players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest. We, the NFL, believe Black Lives Matter. #InspireChange pic.twitter.com/ENWQP8A0sv

— NFL (@NFL) June 5, 2020

Goodell’s video was in response to a video that included a number of star players — including Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas, Cardinals wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins and Chiefs safety Tyrann Mathieu — calling on the league to condemn racism and admit wrongdoing in silencing its players in the past. 

Players, we hear you. #StrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/UJvS7AP0an

— NFL (@NFL) June 5, 2020

According to NFL.com’s Judy Battista, the league is even willing to collaborate with Colin Kaepernick to accomplish some of its social justice goals.

For as much heat as the league has gotten in the past for its suspect handling of peaceful protests and social issues, it appears that the NFL is making a real effort to listen to the concerns of its players and be the powerful force for change it can be.