Staff ReportsThe NFL has decided to scrap its “End Racism” slogan from the end zones of the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans during Super Bowl LIX, opting instead for cheerfully vague phrases like “Choose Love” and “It Takes All of Us.” This development comes as a surprise, especially since the league has been waving the political flag proudly since 2020 in an effort to show just how sensitive—and virtuous—it can be.
NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy could hardly hold back his enthusiasm while announcing this change, claiming it was time to reflect on the “tragedies” the nation has faced lately—events such as the New Year’s Day terror attack in New Orleans and the mid-air collision that tragically took the lives of 67 individuals. Because nothing says unity quite like broad platitudes that barely scratch the surface of the issues at hand. One has to wonder if redefining slogans in the end zone could offer some real solutions.
NFL to remove 'End Racism' phrase from end zones for Super Bowl LIX https://t.co/2XykAkwMSh
— Fox News (@FoxNews) February 4, 2025
This decision builds on the NFL’s previous commitment to what it calls Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), a program that emerged during the fervor of 2020 after the George Floyd incident. The ensuing riots and unrest solidified the league’s platform as a self-proclaimed champion of societal change. However, despite still being committed to these initiatives, Commissioner Roger Goodell recently reassured everyone that they will continue to pursue DEI practices, all while trying to navigate increasing backlash against such agendas, especially from the likes of President Trump.
Goodell’s justification for sticking to the DEI narrative revolves around talent acquisition—because this latest slogan seems to suggest that hiring decisions should focus on race and gender rather than plain old merit. He insists that these measures are simply reflective of the communities they play in, although one must ponder if he’s actually in tune with what the fans truly want. A league that has turned its games into a social experiment might be missing the ball entirely on their core audience, who likely just want to enjoy some football without a side of progressive lecturing.
With various DEI offices shuttering in the public and private sectors in the aftermath of Trump’s push back against these ideologies, it’s hard not to chuckle at the NFL’s commitment in the face of fading public support. The hypocrisy couldn’t be clearer—while they profess sensitivity to the struggles of their fans and communities, their priorities seem wrapped up in virtue signaling rather than genuine connection. Ultimately, the question remains whether the NFL will regain any substantive support from its base or continue its downward spiral into irrelevance, hiding behind empty slogans as ticket sales plummet.
