"He was most proud of his social activism and using his platform to empower others during a racially tense American time," his rep said in a statement. "He was already active in the Civil Rights movement when he organized The Cleveland Summit, a June 1967 gathering of 12 of America's most prominent Black athletes in support of
and his decision to abstain from serving in the Vietnam War. It was seen as a turning point in American sports that is still frequently cited when contemporary athletes make moral or political stances."also echoed the sentiment, describing Jim—who was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 1971—as a "cultural figure who helped promote change."
"During his nine-year NFL career, which coincided with the civil rights movement here at home, he became a forerunner and role model for athletes being involved in social initiatives outside their sport," Goodell said in an NFL press release. "He inspired fellow athletes to make a difference, especially in the communities in which they lived."
Entertainment Entertainment Latest News, Entertainment Entertainment Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Source: RollingStone - 🏆 483. / 51 Read more »
Source: Collider - 🏆 1. / 98 Read more »