discussion

TOPIC: Political participation and the role of athletes.  A recent article in the Houston Chronicle was entitled “Athletes’ Voices Matter” (Sunday, July 10, 2016, C2-3).  The author asserts that college athletes are empowered to speak on issues such as racism, violence and poverty, among other issues.  Here are some cases:

• In 1968, U.S. athletes raised their arms in protest over civil rights during a medal ceremony for the 1968 Olympics. Yet, the athletes were suspended from the U.S. Olympic team for doing so.
• http://time.com/3880999/black-power-salute-tommie-smith-and-john-carlos-at-the-1968-olympics/

• In 2015, black football players at the University of Missouri stated a boycott would take place by them if the University President, Tim Wolfe, did not step down. President Wolfe was criticized for ignoring the perceived culture of racial injustice and inequality on campus. Within three days, the President resigned, as did the System Chancellor.   
• http://www.nytimes.com/2015/11/09/us/missouri-football-players-boycott-in-protest-of-university-president.html

• In 2016, Detriot Lions’ linebacker, Deandre Levy wrote about “why men need to be active and vocal allies for women by speaking out against sexual violence” (Huffington Post, April 28, 2016).
• http://www.theplayerstribune.com/deandre-levy-sexual-assault-awareness/

For our discussion, voice your own opinion on the role of athletes--both collegiate and professional--addressing political and social issues. Do athletes have influence on political and social change?  If so, how?  If so, who is influenced by them?  Should athletes use their sport and status as a platform for other issues?  Is so, what issues?  If not, why? Is it a responsibility?  Is it appropriate to use it as a platform?

Your response REQUIRES research to support your argument.  Use the Chronicle’s article and links above as sources, as well as your own independent sources. 

CITE ALL SOURCES. Take time to articulate a thoughtful and thorough response. When responding to another student’s posting, practice civility and respect.