DeepSummary
The episode tells the story of 14 Black football players at the University of Wyoming in 1969, who decided to protest racist treatment by wearing black armbands during a game against Brigham Young University. The players, among the few Black students at the predominantly white university, had endured racist insults, physical abuse, and discrimination during a previous game against BYU.
The players were part of a nationally ranked team and held in high regard in the football-obsessed state of Wyoming. Although initially hesitant to protest, they were inspired by the civil rights movement sweeping across America at the time. They approached their stern coach, Lloyd Eaton, to seek permission to wear the armbands as a symbolic protest.
Despite their intentions to raise awareness about racism, the players' decision had severe consequences. Their actions were met with harsh backlash, resulting in their dismissal from the team and the revocation of their scholarships, forever altering the trajectories of their lives.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- In 1969, 14 Black football players at the University of Wyoming decided to wear black armbands during a game against Brigham Young University to protest racist treatment, leading to their dismissal from the team and long-lasting repercussions.
- The players, who were among the few Black students at the predominantly white university, had endured racist insults, physical abuse, and discrimination during a previous game against BYU.
- Their decision to protest was inspired by the civil rights movement sweeping across America at the time, but their primary motivation was to raise awareness about the racist treatment they faced on the field.
- Despite their intentions, the players' actions were met with harsh backlash, resulting in their dismissal from the team and the revocation of their scholarships, forever altering the trajectories of their lives.
- The story of the 'Black 14' became a symbol of resistance against racism in sports and sparked discussions about discrimination and equality.
- The episode highlights the challenges and adversities faced by Black athletes in a predominantly white environment, as well as the sacrifices made by those who chose to stand up against injustice.
- The players' act of protest, though controversial at the time, laid the groundwork for future generations of athletes to use their platforms to address social issues and advocate for change.
- The story serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial equality and the importance of speaking out against discrimination, even in the face of potential consequences.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “Typically, the nigger calling and gouging that happens when you get tackled was commonplace at that time.“ by Guillermo Haisa
- “It was black dignity, and I'm proud I've done it, and don't tell them what I'll do if I get up there next time.“ by Tony McGee
- “They turned the sprinklers on and we had to run through the water. Now, mind you, the whole football team, not just the five black players, had to run through the water to get to the locker room.“ by Guillermo Haisa
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2/9/24
*This episode contains lived experiences which involve the use of strong racist language.
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