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Players will also have the option to display these messages on their helmets.
“We’re working hand-in-hand with players, and alongside our clubs, to amplify player voices and underscore what is most important to them,” Anna Isaacson, NFL senior VP of social responsibility, told the AP. “For decades, the NFL and its players have been a unifying force in American culture and society that brings people of all cultures and backgrounds together to enjoy America’s most popular sport.”
[snip]
Reactions on social media were mostly negative, with followers questioning why the NFL was keeping up this campaign when so many other companies and organizations are moving in the opposite direction.
“Can’t we just escape politics and wokeism for a measly 3 hours and watch football? I’m out. I’m totally done with the NFL,” one reply said.
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[snip]
“Dumb. And also now with the male cheerleaders? Why?” one person wrote.
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While male cheerleaders have been part of NFL squads for several years, a clip of rookie cheerleader Blaize Shiek being introduced went viral on social media, igniting significant backlash. Shiek is one of two male cheerleaders on the Minnesota Vikings squad.
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“I have had so many parents of young kids in the trans community say thank you for what I’m doing and that their son or daughter is watching me,” Lindsay said at the time, per NFL.com. “They are so pleased to see that I’m tearing down that wall.”
Lindsay will be cheering again for the Panthers for the 2025 season.