It looks as though the trend of athletes using their notoriety (and game day) to make a statement on relevant social issues is catching on.
On the heels of a number of athletes, including Derrick Rose and LeBron James, donning ‘I Can’t Breathe’ shirts, Cleveland Browns’ wide receiver Andrew Hawkins wore a shirt that read “Justice for Tamir Rice and John Crawford III” for both the pregame warm-up and the team’s introduction onto the field.
More than likely, Hawkins was aware that there might be extra cameras in the stadium, due to highly touted rookie Quarterback Johnny Manziel making his first pro start, and that this particular game would make for maximum exposure.
Whether cognizant of his timing or not, Hawkins made a big splash across social media:
However, not everyone was happy with Hawkins’ courageous act.
Predictably, the Cleveland Police department did not take too kindly to the gesture.
“It’s pretty pathetic when athletes think they know the law,” said Cleveland police union head Jeff Follmer. “They should stick to what they know best on the field. The Cleveland police protect and serve the Browns’ stadium, and the Browns’ organization owes us an apology.”
No word yet on whether the Browns will issue an apology to law enforcement offices.
Also no word yet on if the Cleveland Police department has issued an apology to the families of either John Crawford III or Tamir Rice.
