Common says the NFL doesn't 'really support black people'
Common is ready to take a side when it comes to the Super Bowl, saying that he’s not willing to support the NFL because of the lack of support that they’ve shown Colin Kaepernick.
TMZ approached the rapper to ask about his views on the fast-approaching event and Travis Scott‘s involvement as one of three performers confirmed for the famed halftime show. Ultimately, Common maintained that he couldn’t support the event because the NFL doesn’t “really support black people.”
“When I say they don’t support black people, Kaepernick said he was standing up for people who are being shot down, black and brown people. The NFL basically blackballed him,” he told the outlet. “They’ve shown how they feel about us for real. I respect the NFL players but the owners, man, they ain’t shown nothing.”
Common was still quick to express his love for Scott, saying that he’s a “dope dude.” Still, he went on to say that he has the most respect for those performers who turned the opportunity down, like Rihanna.
“Travis is doing what he got to do, doing what he feel,” Common continued. “I wish he wouldn’t to be honest. It’s his own choice though man, I love him.”
When asked if Scott should have gotten Kaepernick’s blessing before agreeing to perform, Common said that decision was Scott’s to make.
“All I know is I’m supporting Kaepernick,” he said.
Now, people are speaking up against Common’s comments, saying that the NFL has, in fact, supported economic growth in black communities by paying millions of dollars to black players.
They don’t support black people? Really they employ some of the best African American athletes out there. Lol
— AtlFoxyFelicia (@ATLFoxyFelicia) January 17, 2019
So paying all the black players? Which a lot give back to black communities isn’t supporting black people?
— SENNTZZ (@shadysentz) January 17, 2019
🤯 I’m confused. I’m all for standing up for rights. Buts how many black players are getting checks for their talents and paid well beyond what they are worth sometimes. Selective directives and agendas should only go so far.
— Jreasn (@jreasn) January 17, 2019
Ha – there is no other profession that has made African Americans millionaires than the NFL.
— 〽️ike Ward (@MikeWard056) January 17, 2019
No one cares if you support the NFL, but millionaires saying millionaires aren’t being supported is the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard
— Jessica Leigh 🛍 (@jessica_vasicek) January 17, 2019
Despite the pushback, people are still showing their support for Common’s sentiment and his willingness to be so outspoken about it.
I LOVE THIS MAN
— June Andrews (@june_andrews) January 17, 2019
So true Common!
— Sharon Scott (@sharonbscott27) January 17, 2019
Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:
• Jennifer Roth’s alleged racial tweets resurface after her engagement to NFL player Charles Leno Jr.
• NFL cheerleader who was fired over lingerie pic finds zero support from players: ‘It’s offensive,’ says lawyer
• Sarah Thomas makes history as first woman to officiate NFL playoff game
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