Hot Clicks: DeAndre Hopkins Explains Why He Does Not Identify Himself With Clemson
DeAndre Hopkins has joined the growing chorus of athletes calling for change. Hopkins took to Instagram to explain why he does not identify himself with Clemson in pregame introductions.
And he explained that he wears the number 10 because his cousin did 10 years in prison over $600 worth of drugs.
Sports Illustrated host Robin Lundberg gave his thoughts on the powerful message Hopkins sent in adding his name to a petition to remove the name of slave owner John C. Calhoun from its buildings, signs and honors program in today's Hot Clicks.
Read the video transcript:
Robin Lundberg: Athletes continue to use their voice as part of the growing movement across the country. And DeAndre Hopkins has added to that in a very strong way regarding something he previously didn't say. Clemson.
Hopkins posted this message on Instagram, "As we watch everything happening in the world, I want to bring up something that has been bothering me for a long time in my community. Clemson University still honors the name of well-known slave owner and pro slavery politician John C. Calhoun on its building signs and in the name of its honors program. I felt this oppressive figure during my time at Clemson and purposely do not mention the university's name before NFL games because of it. I'm joining the voices of students and faculty who have restarted this petition to rename the Calhoun Honors College. I urge all Clemson students, football players and alumni to join us so the next generation of young black leaders can be proud of the institution they graduate from. Now is the time."
That's really powerful when you think about it. Clemson is a dominant and prestigious program and one of the biggest stars to come out of it is ashamed to utter its name. And really, how could anyone blame him? I wholeheartedly support his and everyone else's position who has signed that petition.
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