Let me guess your reaction to this article. It is either “the athletes should stick to sports” or “it is good to see the players using their platforms in a good way.” Those reactions sum up the way the world operates where everyone has to be on one side or the other.
Following the events surrounding the death of George Floyd, the country dove deeper into chaos and divide. Pete Alonso and Marcus Stroman are two of the vocal leaders in the New York Mets locker room and made their voices heard on social media.
From Tampa’s Pete Alonso (via IG): pic.twitter.com/wviYVoEUcP
— Marc Topkin (@TBTimes_Rays) May 31, 2020
The Mets’ first baseman showed his fearlessness to express his opinion on a pressing matter. His perspective is from someone who has never faced discrimination but showed his support for equality in the country. Throughout his tenure as a Met, he quickly became a leader for the franchise. Alonso kept it simple with a black background and white letters for his Instagram story.
He wanted people to know he is on their side for the battle and will continue to use his voice for change. Fans may forget his support for first responders throughout the 2019 season. He donated part of his home run derby winnings to them, bought the 9/11 memorial cleats for the entire team, and wore them without the MLB’s permission. Alonso also was denied to wear first responder hats during the game but donated the cleats to the 9/11 memorial.
Racism is thriving in America. That’s a fact. If you choose to turn a blind eye towards it…you’re part of the problem that will continue to destroy this nation. Wake up and look in the mirror!
— Marcus Stroman (@STR0) May 31, 2020
Stroman’s Perspective
Stroman put together a few tweets expressing his disappointment and anger with racism in America. Never shy to voice his opinion, he has lived through discrimination based on color and his height. It has created a strong attitude and character that some people love, and others hate.
In April, he challenged NASCAR drive, Kyle Larson, to a fight after Larson’s use of a racial slur during a virtual race. Stroman has never backed down from anyone and is as vocal as anyone in the sport, especially when it comes to race issues.