Skip to content

Emmert: 'We have not done enough' to address injustice and inequality

Brett Wilhelm / NCAA Photos / Getty Images

NCAA president Mark Emmert released a statement on Tuesday addressing George Floyd's death and social injustice in the United States.

In his message, Emmert said the racial disparity in the country can't be ignored, and he thinks sports can help push social change.

"The killing of George Floyd last week laid bare the continued existence of inequality and injustice in America," Emmert said. "The college athletic community must be clear in our stand that it cannot be tolerated. As we look across our nation today we cannot ignore the impact of racial disparity, whether in those stricken by the coronavirus, by the lack of economic and educational opportunity, or by the injustices that cost Mr. Floyd his life."

"Sport historically has been a catalyst for social change and through our leadership and the way we treat one another, each of us can continue to make a difference," he continued. "We must, therefore, commit ourselves individually and collectively to examining what we can do to make our society more just and equal.

"We have not done enough: we can do better."

Floyd's death last week led to protests throughout the United States, prompting some of the world's biggest sports icons to speak out and call for action.

Big Ten commissioner Kevin Warren announced Monday that the conference will form an anti-racism and anti-hate task force.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox