Every Wednesday night during the fall and winter, millions of people gather around televisions and turn to ABC to catch the newest episode of one the network’s most popular shows, Black-ish. The hit sitcom, currently in its fourth season, has gained popularity for its smooth combination between comedy and social commentary. Black-ish has covered many topics over its four year run, such as dealing with racism, police brutality and the use of the N-word.
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On Sunday, February 4th, the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the New England Patriots, 41-33, to earn their first Super Bowl in the franchise’s 84 year history. While a parade through the city along with extravagant rings are some of the many perks of being on a championship team, one of the most unique benefits of winning a championship in American sports is the opportunity to visit the White House. While several teams had previously accepted the invitation, dating back to 1865 with President Andrew Johnson, it was not until Ronald Reagan’s presidency when the tradition of inviting all professional teams was erected.
What was one of the most prestigious opportunities of winning a championship has become controversial in recent years, largely due to the current administration. The highly anticipated, 2017-18, NBA season has officially begun. Here’s a recap of the top stories from opening week:
On Sunday, October 8th, Vice President Mike Pence, a native and former governor of Indiana, attended a NFL game between the Indianapolis Colts and the San Francisco 49ers. The Colts extended a lifelong invitation to the VP, allowing VP Pence to attend any and all home games. Representatives from Pence’s office told the media that he chose to attend this game, well in advance, because VP Pence wanted to witness, former Colts quarterback, Peyton Manning’s induction into the team’s Ring of Honor during halftime.
Colin Kaepernick, former quarterback for the 49ers, on August 26th, 2016 remained seated during the national anthem. After the game, he stated that he refused to stand “because of the oppression of people of color and ongoing issues with police brutality.” Two days later, Kaepernick elaborated on his refusal to sit for the anthem. He said, "I'm going to continue to stand with the people that are being oppressed. When there's significant change and I feel that flag represents what it's supposed to represent, and this country is representing people the way that it's supposed to, I'll stand."
Over the next several months, a handful of other NFL players joined him in protest. The trend spread to other professional, collegiate and high school sports and Kaepernick was met with countless backlash. After being informed that he would be released from the 49ers, Kaepernick opted out of the final year of his contract. Kaepernick currently remains unsigned. Many argue that Kaepernick has been ‘blackballed’ by the NFL for, unironically, the same thing he’s protesting—the silencing of black voices. |
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