CLEVELAND — Fans from across Cleveland are weighing in on our professional sports teams launching a social justice alliance in the wake of Wisconsin police shooting Jacob Blake, who is Black, in the back over the weekend.
The Cleveland Browns, Cavaliers, and Indians have now joined forces "to develop a sustainable and direct strategy to address social injustice facing the city of Cleveland and all Northeast Ohio communities," the teams announced in a joint statement on Thursday morning.
"The alliance will also focus on improving the relationship between law enforcement and its citizens, encouraging nonpartisan voting activities and increasing the opportunities for quality education for everyone," officials said in a press release.
While initial actions will concentrate on voting, voter education, and nonpartisan voter registration, this group will also connect and work in partnership with community and civic leaders and minority organizations to address issues impacting the individuals they represent.
Northeast Ohio sports fans reacted with responses across the board, from believing athletes should not speak their minds to overwhelming support for the alliance. Here's what people said, on Facebook and Twitter:
Mateo Baughman: In season I think they should just stick to sports.
Ali Stover: Maybe they should work on some championships before they use their sweet skills in politics?
In reply to Ali Stover, Jesse Unk: Why would anyone value championships over equality?
Grateful Shakira: Only Ohio's bigots will have a problem with this. Their narcissistic need to be the victim in a country where there were no legal obstacles, is ridiculous!
Stan Dean: I love this. Good on them for not just kneeling for the anthem but actually taking action to help stop all the nonsense.
Todd Smith @WolverineAC: Yes its a step in the right direction but these guys cant make change. they need to bring in the higher up. Top police chiefs, small town police chiefs, the AG & even the last 3 Prez. Stop the hate and have a dialog. Find a solution. Help one another.
Jordan @__JHead: That’s major, this is what protesting does for all those questioning boycotting!