NASCAR Sends a Strong Message Against Racial Discrimination as Keedron Bryant Sings the National Anthem in Atlanta

Last night, NASCAR sent a strong message against racial discrimination in the Cup Series race at Atlanta. Before the race, NASCAR broadcasted a video made by Cup series drivers in support of the ongoing protests.

Many people including Jimmie Johnson, Bubba Wallace, and former NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt Jr posted the video on their Twitter accounts.

Keedron Bryant most famously known for his song “I Just Wanna Live” sang the national anthem. The song has become a staple among the protestors across the county.

Additionally, during the national anthem, a black NASCAR staff member kneeled to show his support to the protesters. The gesture was made famous by former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick.

“The time is now to stand against racism and racial injustice”: NASCAR President

NASCAR President Steve Phelps addressed the drivers and staff before the race. In his message, he asked everyone to come up and stand against any form of racial discrimination.

Phelps said, “Thank you for your time. Our country is in pain and people are justifiably angry, demanding to be heard. The black community and all people of color have suffered in our country, and it has taken far too long for us to hear their demands for change. Our sport must do better. Our country must do better.”

He added, “The time is now to listen, to understand and to stand against racism and racial injustice,”.

After that, he asked everyone to stand up and join the fight. He said, “We ask our drivers and all our fans to join us in this mission, to take a moment of reflection, to acknowledge that we must do better as a sport, and join us as we now pause and take a moment to listen.”

During the race, Fox NASCAR host and NASCAR legend Jeff Gordon sent a massage from the studio. He said, “We need to step up more than we ever have before. We are listening, we are learning and we are ready to change.”

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