In 2016, Colin Kaepernick, the former 49ers quarterback, began kneeling during the national anthem to peacefully protest America’s history of racial injustice. This stance sparked controversy, and some people condemned him for his actions. For others, Kaepernick’s example gave them courage to protest racial injustice, and other NFL players began kneeling during the national anthem, using sports as a platform for activism.
In the protests that are sweeping across America, some protestors are also kneeling — showing their reverence and defiance of the death of George Floyd and many others.
The School of Greatness has always focused on positive growth, change, love, and healing, and racial justice is an essential part of that. We can’t all achieve greatness and live our best lives if we aren’t all truly equal. We can’t achieve greatness by staying silent.
I understand that there’s a lot of work I need to do personally, both internally and externally, and that this work will take time. I’m gonna make mistakes, I’m gonna say the wrong thing, and you might as well. But my intention is to help build a more kind, equal, just, loving world, and I hope that’s your intention, too.
Right now, I think one of the best things we can do is listen and educate ourselves on racial injustice, and so today, I meet with Michael Bennett to discuss activism, racism in sports, and how to make a difference.
Michael Bennett is an NFL star, defensive lineman, 3-time Pro Bowler, and a Super Bowl Champion with the Seattle Seahawks’ Legion of Boom… and he’s all of that despite being undrafted out of college!
In addition to his athletic accomplishments, Michael is one of the more outspoken players in the NFL and a true leader in his community when it comes to social justice. When Colin Kaepernick started kneeling in protest of racial injustice, Michael immediately joined in support.
In 2018, Michael became a New York Times Bestselling Author with his book, Things That Make White People Uncomfortable. Now, he’s hosting a podcast with his wife, Pele, that’s called Mouthpeace, which encourages difficult conversations on a wide range of topics, including racism, sex, and sports.
Author William Faulkner said, “Never be afraid to raise your voice for honesty and truth and compassion against injustice and lying and greed.” Michael Bennett is the perfect example of someone who speaks truth and justice boldly in the face of racial prejudice. I am so thankful for the opportunity to listen and learn from him.
Please join me on Episode 964 to learn about activism, racism in sports, and how we can make a difference with NFL star Michael Bennett.
Some Questions I Ask:
- Does this protest moment feel any different from previous times?
- What have you learned from being a father of three girls?
- Would you be a different football player if you had sons instead of daughters?
- Were you ever afraid of being criticized, judged, or punished due to your activism?
- Have you seen any racial divide in the locker room?
- What are your thoughts about Drew Brees’ comments on the protests?
- Do you expect to see more protests in the NFL next year?
- How were you able to go from being undrafted to winning a Super Bowl?
- What do you want your legacy to be?
In this episode, you will learn:
- How Michael feels about the evolving relationship between athletes and activism.
- What Michael learned from his parents that allows him to express conviction in his views.
- What Michael learned from his parents that allows him to express conviction in his views.
- Why Michael feels uniquely prepared to speak out on issues of racial justice.
- Why Michael anticipates the NFL will change this year in its relationship to protest.
- How the evidence of your character speaks louder than your words.
- Why it is important to drop your privilege and listen to others’ perspectives.
- Why Michael thinks he would not have had the same success if he had been drafted.
- Plus much more…
Connect with:
Michael Bennett
