Columbus Dispatch: Ohio State football players to boycott game over racial injustice

Columbus Dispatch: Ohio State Football Players to Boycott Game Over Racial InjusticeColumbus Dispatch: Ohio State Football Players to Boycott Game Over Racial Injustice COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Ohio State University football players have announced their intention to boycott the team’s scheduled game against Rutgers on Saturday due to ongoing racial injustices and systemic racism in the country. The decision was made following a meeting with head coach Ryan Day on Wednesday night. In a statement released by the team, players expressed their frustration and disappointment with the lack of action taken to address police brutality and racial discrimination. “We recognize that this is a difficult decision, but we believe it is necessary to stand up for what we believe in,” the statement read. “We want to make it clear that we are not condoning violence or destruction of property, but we believe that peaceful protest is our right.” The players highlighted several specific incidents that prompted their boycott, including the recent police shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis earlier this year. They also expressed frustration over the lack of reforms to address police brutality and racial profiling. Coach Day expressed his support for the players and their decision. “I stand behind our players and their right to peacefully protest,” he said. “We fully support their efforts to bring about positive change and end racial injustice.” The boycott has sparked mixed reactions. Some fans have expressed support for the players’ actions, while others have criticized their decision to cancel a game. The university administration has stated that it respects the players’ decision and is committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students. The boycott serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial justice in the United States. It highlights the frustration and anger felt by many black Americans and the need for meaningful action to address systemic racism.