Sports are ingrained in American culture, and as such are often entangled into political and social issues. The term ‘sports activism’ isn’t a new concept, but in 2016 it took a controversial turn, with athlete-driven protests garnering more prominent coverage and criticism. Minnesota is a sports-centric state that has teams in all the major sporting leagues; and there are many with differing opinions regarding the athletes’ activism and how they represent the state.

There have been many forms of protests, most notably Colin Kaepernick kneeling during the national anthem, the Minnesota Vikings playing “Lift Every Voice and Sing” in addition to the national anthem to honor George Floyd while the Green Bay Packers remained in the locker room, individual athletes exhibiting social justice messages supporting various movements such as BLM (Black Lives Matter) or encouraging voting, even player strikes or game postponements, such as the canceled Minnesota Twins vs. Detroit Tigers game in 2020. 

The causes these athlete activists are speaking out against are racial discrimination, police violence, and other social movements. However, many perceive the protests as disrespecting the United States as a country, the flag, and the armed forces.

The various forms of athlete activism were seen as a serious controversy by the Trump administration. Through interviews, speeches, and tweets, former President Trump has suggested boycotting sports and games in which players protest peacefully and that players should be suspended or fired for the display. Under President Joe Biden, the White House has expressed support both for the military and for players’ right as Americans to peacefully protest police brutality and systemic racism.

The question for debate is, with examples like taking a knee during anthems and social justice jerseys, have sports in MN become too political?