The Evolution of the Politically Conscious Black Athlete: From Silence to Activism
In the 2020 election cycle, the involvement of black athletes in politics reached a notable peak. Athletes like LeBron James and organizations such as the WNBA took significant steps to support Democratic candidates and social justice causes. However, despite this heightened engagement, a surprising number of black athletes chose to remain silent about the presidential election itself. This silence was particularly striking given the backdrop of the 2016 election, where many black athletes were vocally supportive of political movements and candidates. The shift in behavior raises questions about the factors influencing the political engagement of black athletes and the broader implications for their role in society.
The Democratic Party has historically enjoyed substantial support from black athletes, especially in states like California, where figures like Kamala Harris have garnered what some have dubbed the ‘golden state warrior vote.’ This support is not limited to high-profile endorsements but extends to grassroots efforts and community mobilization. Yet, outside of the Bay Area, the level of involvement from black athletes in the 2020 election was noticeably muted. This phenomenon contrasts sharply with the active participation seen in the 2016 election, suggesting a potential shift in priorities or strategies among these influential figures.
One notable exception to this trend was the Georgia Senate race in 2020, where the intersection of sports and politics was vividly displayed. WNBA players openly supported Democrat Raphael Warnock over Republican Senator Kelly Loeffler, who co-owned the Atlanta Dream. This endorsement was credited with helping Warnock secure a victory, thereby contributing to the Democratic Party gaining control of the Senate. This political shift paved the way for significant milestones, such as the nomination of Ketanji Brown Jackson as the first black woman to serve on the Supreme Court. The involvement of WNBA players in this race highlights the potential impact of athlete activism on electoral outcomes and policy changes.
Despite the visible activism during the 2020 protests against racial injustice, former President Donald Trump maintained his stance and continued to attack outspoken black athletes. His administration’s policies, including the promise to reinstate ‘stop-and-frisk’ policing, further alienated many within the black community. Trump’s public insults towards athletes like LeBron James exemplified the contentious relationship between the administration and politically active black athletes. This dynamic underscores the challenges faced by black athletes who use their platforms to advocate for social justice and political change.
The wealth and fame of black athletes do not shield them from the realities of police abuse and systemic racism. This vulnerability is a driving force behind their activism, as they seek to leverage their influence to effect change. Women athletes, in particular, have shown considerable enthusiasm for figures like Kamala Harris, potentially due to Trump’s previous attacks on female athletes. The WNBA’s visible support for Harris, including wearing t-shirts and pledging increased involvement, reflects a broader trend of female athletes taking prominent roles in political activism. This gendered aspect of athlete activism adds another layer to the complex interplay between sports and politics.
Nneka Ogwumike, a WNBA player, has emerged as a key leader in the organization ‘More Than a Vote,’ which aims to combat voter suppression and promote civic engagement. Her leadership and the excitement surrounding Harris’s candidacy have galvanized many within the sports community. However, despite these efforts, there remains a noticeable gap in the level of enthusiasm and involvement from black male athletes compared to their female counterparts. LeBron James, for instance, handed over control of his organization but did not personally engage more deeply in the 2020 election. This discrepancy raises questions about the factors that influence the political engagement of male and female athletes differently.
Kamala Harris has made concerted efforts to connect with the sports community, attending games and events to build rapport with athletes. While her presence has been well-received, it is clear that she cannot take the support of black athletes for granted. Winning over this influential group requires ongoing engagement and addressing the issues that matter most to them. The reasons behind the relative silence of black athletes in the 2020 election remain unclear, but it is evident that their belief in the importance of using their influence persists. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for comprehending the evolving role of black athletes in political discourse.
Sports Politika, a media venture founded by investigative journalist Karim Zidan, seeks to explore the intricate relationship between sports and politics. By offering independent and accessible journalism, Sports Politika aims to raise awareness and promote understanding of how these two spheres intersect. In anticipation of a presidential debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, Sports Politika hosted a live chat focused on the role of sports in the national conversation during the election. This platform provides a space for subscribers to engage in discussions about the potential gains or losses for sports under different political administrations.
Trump’s long history of involvement in the sports world, from promoting boxing matches to leveraging connections with the UFC for political gain, exemplifies the deep ties between sports and politics. Similarly, Harris’s support from well-known athletes like Steph Curry and her engagement with the US Olympic basketball team solidify her connections to the sports community. These relationships highlight the significance of sports figures in shaping political narratives and influencing public opinion. The live chat hosted by Sports Politika offered subscribers an opportunity to delve into these topics and share their perspectives on the intersection of sports, power, and politics.
The interplay between sports and politics is not a new phenomenon, but its visibility has increased in recent years. Caitlin Clark’s political journey, which began at the 2023 NCAA women’s basketball championship, serves as a case in point. The game between Iowa and Louisiana State University (LSU) represented a clash between white middle America and black America, respectively. LSU’s victory in the most-watched women’s college basketball game to date sparked a national debate about race and the role of athletes in politics. First Lady Jill Biden’s comments praising Clark and her team further fueled this discussion, highlighting the polarizing nature of sports as a platform for political expression.
In an election year focused on fitness and vitality, the political influence of sports has become more apparent. Clark, who has become a symbol for anti-woke sentiment among MAGA Americans, illustrates the complex dynamics at play. Even at inclusive events like the Olympics, athletes like Simone Biles have prompted debates about work ethic and social issues. In the NFL, conservative players like Aaron Rodgers have voiced their opinions on controversial topics, challenging the notion that athletes should ‘shut up and dribble.’ Instead, they are now expected to juggle their convictions and navigate the politically charged landscape of modern sports.
This trend has translated directly to the political stage, with athlete endorsements and speeches featuring prominently at both the Republican and Democratic National Conventions. The stakes are high, as Americans remain divided on whether athletes should use their platforms for political expression. Male athletes from progressive leagues like the NBA are often more outspoken in their political views, while the WNBA’s support for social justice issues further cements its reputation as a progressive force. The current generation of athlete activists draws inspiration from legendary figures like Muhammad Ali and Tommie Smith, who faced significant backlash for their outspokenness.
Social media has amplified the voices of athletes, providing them with a larger platform to express their views. However, not all athletes are comfortable navigating this space. Caitlin Clark, for example, has yet to fully embrace the role of a political figure, despite her inadvertent association with certain political sentiments. Conservative viewpoints are most apparent in football, where the controversial protests of Colin Kaepernick and the backlash against athletes supporting progressive causes highlight the polarized nature of the sport. As sports continue to transform from a neutral platform to a politically charged arena, the role of athletes in shaping political discourse and public opinion becomes increasingly significant.