Source: New York Times
The African American History Museum has had hundreds of professional athletes visiting for tours since its doors opened in September.
The museum’s founding director explained that more athletes are interested in their impact and role in social justice and appreciate the historical significance of American athletes’ role in the fight for equal rights.
“A growing number of talented black athletes, endowed with both fortunes and platforms that were largely unavailable to their counterparts in past eras, increasingly see themselves not only as role models, but also as businessmen and philanthropists,” wrote the New York Times.
In recent years, with the existence of social media channels and increased Internet access, the impact of athletes who are activists and advocates of equal rights has become more visible, viral and far-reaching.
One of the highlights of the permanent sports exhibition in the museum is the statue placed near the entrance, of Olympic medalist Tommie Smith and John Carlos raising their fists in salute of Black Power as they received gold and bronze medals, respectively.
“In a year when the White House has become a fraught Washington destination for athletes, the African-American history museum…has quickly become a must-see attraction for visiting players and teams,” New York Times wrote, referring to the decrease in the number of professional athletes attending the White House because they don’t feel welcome.
Read full story at: New York Times