Houston Texans’ linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair took a stand before his team’s game on Sunday, using his platform to raise awareness for an important cause. As he stepped onto the field at NRG Stadium, his eye black boldly read “stop the gen-cide,” a message that resonated with many fans and fellow players.
This was not the first time Al-Shaair had chosen to use his eye black to make a statement. In the wild-card round, he had written “Breonna Taylor” on his eye black, in honor of the young Black woman who was tragically killed by police in her own home. However, this time, the NFL was quick to take notice and impose a hefty fine on the linebacker.
Despite the league’s warning, Al-Shaair did not back down. He knew the consequences of his actions, but he also knew that his message was more important than any fine or punishment. In an interview before the game, he said, “It’s important to use our platform to bring awareness to issues that are often overlooked or ignored.”
And that’s exactly what Al-Shaair did. His eye black served as a powerful visual reminder of the ongoing genocide against Uyghur Muslims in China. The linebacker’s message not only raised awareness but also sparked conversations and discussions about the issue.
But Al-Shaair’s message did not end there. During the game, he continued to make an impact on the field, recording three tackles and a crucial interception that helped his team secure the win. His performance on the field and his powerful message off it sent a strong message to the world that athletes can use their platform for good, even in the face of opposition.
The NFL’s reaction to Al-Shaair’s message raises questions about the league’s priorities. While the league has been vocal about its support for social justice movements, it seems to draw the line when it comes to taking action. By fining Al-Shaair for his eye black message, the NFL is sending a conflicting message to its players and fans.
However, despite the league’s actions, Al-Shaair’s message has not been silenced. In fact, it has only gained more attention and support. Many of his teammates, including star quarterback Deshaun Watson, have voiced their support for his message. Even the team’s owner, Cal McNair, released a statement saying, “We fully support Azeez and his efforts to bring awareness to important social issues.”
Al-Shaair’s courage and determination to speak out against injustice should be applauded and celebrated. In a league where players are often told to stay out of politics and just play the game, Al-Shaair is using his platform to make a difference, and that is something to be admired.
This is not the first time that the NFL has faced criticism for its handling of social justice issues. In 2016, then-San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick sparked a movement by kneeling during the national anthem to protest police brutality and racial inequality. His actions were met with backlash and ultimately led to him being blackballed from the league.
But Al-Shaair’s actions show that players are not afraid to use their platform, despite the potential consequences. They are not just athletes; they are also citizens who have the right to express their opinions and stand up for what they believe in.
In a league where players are often fined for wearing the wrong cleats or socks, it’s disappointing to see that a powerful message like Al-Shaair’s is met with a fine. However, it’s also important to acknowledge that the NFL has made some progress in supporting social justice causes. For example, the league has committed $250 million over 10 years to combat systemic racism and support social justice programs.
But there is still much more work to be done. The NFL needs to take a closer look at its policies and priorities and address the double standards that exist within the league. It’s time for the league to fully support its players in their efforts to bring about positive change.
In the end, Al-Shaair’s message serves as a reminder that athletes have a powerful platform that can be used to bring about change and make a difference. As fans, we should not only support them but also join them in their fight against social injustice. And as for Al-Shaair, he has proven that he is not just a talented linebacker, but also a courageous and passionate advocate