Seahawks DE Michael Bennett criticizes lack of response to shootings
Jul 8, 2016, 2:24 PM | Updated: 5:42 pm
Michael Bennett aired his frustration over the response, or lack thereof, of the shooting of two black men earlier this week.
Related: Washington Teacher of the Year says shootings ‘create more distrust’
The Seahawks defensive end post several Instagram messages, including one that was directed at his fellow athletes, criticizing the fact that more people posted about Kevin Durant’s decision to play for the Golden State Warriors than someone being killed.
Bennett’s posts also included one of him with two of his daughters with their fists in the air with the caption: “Black girls rock.”
A photo posted by Michael Bennett (@mosesbread72) on
Bennett’s statements on social media led KIRO Radio’s Dave Ross and Colleen O’Brien to wonder if there is any risk to doing this. 710 ESPN’s Danny O’Neil says there is.
“I think you see less political statements from players,” O’Neil explained. “I think that has to do with the modern perception of athletes as a brand.”
O’Neil’s statement can be backed up by what Michael Jordan said as his reason for not endorsing a black Democratic candidate in a 1990 race: “Republicans buy shoes, too.” In other words, athletes risk antagonizing and alienating people by making political statements.
But Bennett has been more political than some of his peers. He even came out and endorsed Bernie Sanders.
“Certainly, I think it’s great when athletes feel compelled to speak their perspective,” O’Neil said. “I also think it’s a difficult task, at some points.”
Of course, Bennett hasn’t been the only one to weigh in on the shootings; but his is far more critical than others.
Loving Our Humanity is the Only true cure to the Pain of Our Society. pic.twitter.com/vmz3m7G3Tr
— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) July 8, 2016
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