OPINION: Democrats Discuss — It’s more than just a game

Megan Gale is a sophomore studying special education. She is a member of the Ohio University College Democrats. The following article reflects the opinions and views of the author and does not represent the thoughts of the Ohio University College Democrats.

This is a submitted column. Please note that these views and opinions do not reflect those of The New Political.

The world of sports has been a breeding ground for political commentary in the United States for decades. 

Athletes shape American political culture, specifically Black athletes. Sports have always been political. 

From when Black athletes were barred from participating in organized sports to recent police brutality protests, Black athletes have been influential in American politics, and from Jackie Robinson to Colin Kaepernick, Black athletes create change and amplify Black voices. While no empirical studies have been done, it is hard to deny the influence that sports have on political culture.

Robinson was the first Black athlete to participate in the MLB — before his baseball career, he stood up against segregation. During his career, national discussions surrounding segregation took place. 

At the 1968 Olympics, Tommie Smith and John Carlos lowered their heads and raised their fists during the national anthem while they were on the podium. Doing the Black Power salute during the national anthem made a statement. 

Muhammad Ali protested the Vietnam War and refused to serve. 

Colin Kaepernick knelt during the playing of the national anthem before an NFL game to protest the treatment of racial minorities. 

All these moments caused national discussion and brought attention to the issues they were advocating for. 

After the shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin, the Milwaukee Bucks refused to play in their playoff game to protest police brutality. The NBA eventually announced that all playoff games would be postponed. Three WNBA games were also called off because of the protests. 

While the influence that sports and Black athletes have on the current political climate are undeniable, some people argue that athletes have no business being involved in politics. Fox News host Laura Ingraham, for example, previously said that NBA players LeBron James and Kevin Durant should “shut up and dribble.” In response, LeBron James produced a show called “Shut Up and Dribble,” where he and other Black athletes discussed politics and being Black in America. 

The U.S. has a long-standing tradition of turning to Black athletes to lead the way, and they have. Having a platform to bring awareness to injustice is a powerful thing.

Sports were among the first places to break the color barrier and allow women to be active participants. They have always been a place for change and politics. Athletes have a platform that politicians simply do not have; Black athletes use it for change.

These athletes did not bring politics into sports, but sports brought them into the political world. It is a beautiful thing, having sports and politics go hand in hand. Sports have always been a constant in the U.S. and without sports, awareness and reform would not be possible.