Denver Broncos join protesters in march for racial justice
DENVER, Colo. (KRDO) -- More than 50 Broncos players, including lineabacker Von Miller, cornerback Kareem Jackson and quarterback Drew Lock took part in a march in Denver for racial justice Saturday. All 25 members of the Broncos coaching staff, including head coach Vic Fangio, were there as well.
It marked the tenth straight day of protests against police brutality after the death of George Floyd.
"Hate does not drive out hate. OK? We have to make sure we stick together," safety Justin Simmons said to the massive crowd at the Greek Amphitheater.
The Broncos, alongside a massive group of fellow protesters, made their way through the streets of Denver. The chants of, "Black lives matter," echoed for blocks.
Linebacker Alexander Johnson said the protests are bigger than just him. He's fighting for the next generation, which includes his newborn daughter.
"My mother raised me to love all, to care for all, but she also taught me that [because of] the color of my skin, I might get treated differently, and that happened through my lifetime," Johnson said. "That's one of the biggest things I want to help fight and change in America. I've got a new baby girl, and I don't want her to have to go through some of the stuff I've been through."
The march was supposed to last less than 45 minutes. It ended up going for well over an hour. It began at City Hall, where players met with government officials. The officials included Denver mayor Michael Hancock and police chief Paul Pazen.
It was Simmons who took over the show with a powerful speech to the largely white crowd. He asked them to take action by helping make change through policy.
"Your voice matters. It doesn't matter [what] your platform [is], [or] your sphere of influence in your life. The people around you matter," Simmons said. "Those are tough conversations to have, but they need to be had. I'm not here to nitpick but that's part of what white privilege looks like. You can look at white people and not have those conversations, and your lives will not be affected by it, but black lives will. That's important to understand."
This is only the beginning of a long road to change. Guard Dalton Risner says he's up for the challenge.
"I told my fellows in a team meeting that if they march I'm right there with them. We are all aware that there's an issue in this world. I'm out here supporting them and spreading love and letting everyone know that there is a problem and we have to get better at that."
