Mon Sep 09 14:43:24 UTC 2024: ## NFL’s Performative Activism Fails to Protect Tyreek Hill from Police Brutality

**Miami Gardens, FL:** NFL superstar Tyreek Hill, despite his status as one of the league’s most prominent players, was subjected to excessive force by Miami-Dade police before Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Videos captured the incident, showing officers pushing Hill face down onto the concrete twice and striking him while he was complying with orders.

The incident, which garnered widespread media attention, highlights the NFL’s hypocrisy regarding its stance on police brutality and racial justice. Despite launching initiatives aimed at addressing racism and partnering with police departments, the league appears unwilling to challenge law enforcement actions when they target its own players.

The NFL’s past history with Colin Kaepernick’s protest, which was met with a public relations campaign rather than genuine dialogue, further exemplifies this double standard. The league’s focus on performative activism, such as playing “Lift Every Voice and Sing” before the national anthem and choosing a politically charged artist like Kendrick Lamar for the Super Bowl halftime show, appears to be a mere attempt to appease public perception and protect its bottom line, as suggested by Washington Commanders VP Rael Enteen in leaked recordings.

The incident with Hill raises concerns about the NFL’s commitment to social justice, particularly in light of the current political climate. One presidential candidate is advocating for mandatory stop-and-frisk policies and police immunity, while the other party has failed to address police reform following the murder of George Floyd.

While Hill has a history of domestic violence, the incident underscores the need for greater police accountability and protection for all individuals, regardless of their past actions. The NFL’s silence on this issue reflects a deeper problem within the league and the broader American society.

The article concludes by highlighting the importance of independent journalism in challenging power structures and exposing corruption, urging readers to support The Nation’s work in holding the NFL and other institutions accountable.

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