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Throughout history, Black athletes have used their platform to bring awareness to a number of issues affecting the Black community.
From the Black Power salute in the 1968 Olympics to Colin Kaepernick's kneel, several professional athletes have put their careers at risk to take a stand.
In honor of Black History Month, keep scrolling to learn more about the athletes who have stood up for the cause.
Tommie Smith & John Carlos
Track and Field Olympians Tommie Smith and John Carlos took a powerful stance in 1968 when they held up the Black Power salute on the Summer Olympics podium.
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The Syracuse 8
In 1970, a group of Black college athletes at Syracuse University boycotted the football team, demanding equal treatment. The Syracuse 8 boycott ultimately led to an overhaul of college athletic programs across the nation.
Muhammad Ali
Boxing legend Muhammad Ali used his stardom to speak out against white supremacy and spread a message of Black pride during the Civil Rights movement.
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St. Louis Rams
During a game against the Oakland Raiders, St. Louis Rams players walked onto the field with their hands up in support of protestors in Ferguson. Though the five players were never fined or disciplined, the St. Louis Police Officers Associated urged they be punished for taking a stand.
Colin Kaepernick
Former 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick took a major stance at an NFL game in 2016 when he refused to stand during the singing of the National Anthem.
Photo: Getty Images
LeBron James
LeBron James has never shied away from speaking out about issues affecting the Black community. In memory of Eric Garner, James and the Cleveland Cavaliers wore “I Can’t Breathe” at a 2014 NBA game, sparking a domino effect across the league. During the 2016 ESPYs, James was among four NBA players who delivered a call to action to all athletes, urging them to join the fight against police brutality.
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Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf
Former NBA player Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf refused to stand for the national anthem in 1996, stating the flag was a symbol of oppression.
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