NEW YORK — The National Football League will tout social justice on the field when the 2020 season begins.
Commissioner Roger Goodell confirmed during a conference call with reporters Tuesday that the phrases “End Racism” and “It Takes All of Us” will be stenciled in NFL end zones, NFL.com reported. Goodell also encouraged fans to register to vote.
“The NFL stands with the black community, the players, clubs and fans confronting systemic racism,” Goodell told reporters. “We will not relent in our work.”
The moves confirmed what had been written in a memo in late July, which was reported by ESPN.
“As we continue to amplify and elevate the NFL’s ongoing and long-term commitment to social justice, we will be incorporating several prominent elements on the field, into all broadcasts and across league and club platforms to begin the NFL season and beyond,” the memo read. “In developing these concepts, we have worked directly with players and received input from the NFLPA.”
The stencils in the end zone are part of the NFL’s Inspire Change program.
The league previously said it would permit decals on the back of players’ helmets, or patches on team caps, displaying names or phrases to honor victims of racism and/or police brutality.
The approved phrases include “Stop Hate,” “It Takes All Of Us,” “End Racism” or “Black Lives Matter.’” The same choices can be used by coaches and on-field officials, the NFL said.
A recorded performance of “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing,” traditionally known as the Black national anthem, will be featured in pregame ceremonies for the first week of the regular season, ESPN reported in July.