After receiving harsh criticism for his denial of racism in America in a recent GQ interview, the Carolina Panther’s quarterback spoke out on police brutality and the backlash he faced yesterday (Sept. 21), at a press conference. After the murder of Keith Lamont Scott by a police officer in Charlotte, NC on Tuesday (Sept. 20), Cam Newton decided it was time to speak up about the events in the city he’s making a living in.
Cam Newton touching on many points here about his voice and speaking out on issues #Panthers #KeithScott pic.twitter.com/vg7QtUXpCm
— Matt Harris (@MHarrisWSOC9) September 21, 2016
“I’m a firm believer of justice. I’m a firm believer of doing the right thing and I can’t repeat it enough, of just holding people accountable. I’m an African-American. I am not happy with what or how justice has been dealt with over the years, the state of oppression in our community. But we also, as black people, have to do right by ourselves. We can’t be hypocrites. I say that on one voice and also another voice that when you go public or when things happen in the community, it’s not the fact that things are happening. It’s the way they’re being treated after they happen. I have a son and a daughter that I’m responsible for. How would I be if one day they come home and it’s no more daddy?”
Cam acknowledged he was in a lose-lose situation, speaking up would create division, but he spoke passionately and stayed true to himself.
The 27-year-old also took to Instagram shortly after the 12-minute press conference to show support of Colin Kaepernick, and expanded on his thoughts about social justice. Salute to Cam for speaking up!