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NFL Super Bowl End Zones Feature New Messages Amid National Tragedies
New Orleans — In a poignant gesture reflecting the current national mood, the NFL will emblazon the message “Choose Love” in one end zone of the Superdome during the upcoming Super Bowl. This decision comes in light of multiple tragedies that have marked the beginning of this year, showcasing the league’s aim to inspire unity and positivity within the country.
This year’s choice deviates from the league’s previous messaging of “End Racism,” which has been a familiar phrase since the league began this initiative. According to NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy, “The Super Bowl is often a snapshot in time and the NFL is in a unique position to capture and lift the imagination of the country.” He noted that recent events, from devastating wildfires in Southern California to a series of tragic incidents in New Orleans and surrounding areas, underscore the need for a message of love and solidarity.
The phrase “It Takes All of Us” will be featured in the opposite end zone, continuing its presence since the NFL’s Inspire Change initiative was launched in 2020. Throughout this season, various teams have chosen different phrases, including “Vote,” “End Racism,” “Stop Hate,” and “Choose Love,” to relay their support for important social issues.
The Kansas City Chiefs, the reigning champions, used “Choose Love” during their AFC Championship clash against the Buffalo Bills, while the Philadelphia Eagles opted for “End Racism” in the NFC Championship. Notably, former President Trump is expected to attend the game, where the Chiefs will aim to make history by securing a third consecutive Super Bowl victory.
Two sources with insight into the situation have dismissed the idea that Trump’s anticipated presence influenced the decision to use “Choose Love” over “End Racism.” These individuals, speaking anonymously, indicated that the league’s messaging strategy is driven by broader societal considerations rather than political ones.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell addressed concerns regarding the league’s commitment to diversity, stating that he does not perceive a conflict between the NFL’s initiatives and the Trump administration’s agenda on diversity, equity, and inclusion within the federal sector. The NFL has long-standing policies, such as the “Rooney Rule,” which mandates that teams interview diverse candidates for key coaching and front office roles, aimed at fostering inclusivity within the league.
Goodell further emphasized, “Our owners participate in everything that we do. Our policies have been designed to be well within the law, well within the practice. There are no quotas in our system. This is about opening that funnel and bringing the best talent into the NFL.” He reiterated the NFL’s commitment to actions that align with both the current and past administrations, highlighting the league’s ongoing efforts to enhance diversity and inclusion.
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