In addition to navigating challenges brought about by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, professional sports leagues have also attempted to carry out their respective seasons and playoffs amid social unrest.
The Los Angeles Dodgers and San Francisco Giants kneeled during a video that was played during their Opening Series, and Mookie Betts remained that way for the national anthem. Cody Bellinger and Max Muncy each put their hand on Betts’ shoulders, which he greatly appreciated.
Regularly addressing social injustice has been prevalent throughout the NBA restart and into the playoffs. Players continued to voice their frustration and anger over police brutality and other matters, and their messaging took matters a step further Wednesday.
The Milwaukee Bucks boycotted their Game 5 matchup against the Orlando Magic, in a monumental act. The courageous decision drew the praise of Dodgers starter David Price.
That’s action 👏🏽 👏🏽 👏🏽 https://t.co/1S9AOtJ4bH
— David Price (@DAVIDprice24) August 26, 2020
Shortly after the Bucks’ decision, the Houston Rockets and Oklahoma City Thunder decided to boycott as well, so too did L.A. Lakers and Portland Trail Blazers will follow suit for their Game 5 matchup later in the evening.
The Dodgers eventually were among the teams to not take the field.
Since opting out of the 2020 season due to health and safety concerns, Price has continued to use his platform to call for change.
Dodgers band together
Led by Clayton Kershaw, Cody Bellinger, Justin Turner and others, the Dodgers recently came together to call for an end to systemic racism, among other topics.
“For centuries, the Black community has lived in a different America. Instead of addressing racism, inequality and injustice, many of us just look away,” Kershaw said in the published video. “Silence is no longer an option. I’m fighting for my teammates, their families, and their communities.”
Turner added: “As proud Americans, how much longer can we avoid an honest look in the mirror? Equality is at-bat. Together, we must learn and grow.”
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