Denver Broncos linebacker Brandon Marshall announced ahead of Sunday night’s game against the Oakland Raiders that he is ending his national anthem protest.
Marshall was one of the first players to join Colin Kaepernick’s protest and kneel during the national anthem for his games. He drew attention for doing so during the season-opening game against the Carolina Panthers, and he continued to do so even after losing an endorsement deal.
But Marshall posted on Instagram Sunday to explain why he is ending his protest, and he says it’s largely because he’s seen positive change come as a result. Specifically, Marshall cited the Denver Police Department reviewing its use of force policy.
Here is the text of his note:
For the 1st half of the season, I’ve been taking a knee for the National Anthem to raise awareness for social injustice and to start conversation about what all of us can do to make a positive change. I’m encouraged with the many productive discussions and progress that has taken place as the Denver Police department has decided to review its use of force policy. I’m proud to have joined so many of my peers throughout sports who’ve also made their own statements.
Going forward, I will be standing for the National Anthem—not because everything is perfect, or because I’m changing my stance on things. But because of my hope for what we can become. Just because I am standing doesn’t mean the work will end. There’s much work to be done. I’ll continue to recognize and support organizations that are stepping up as leaders and making a real difference in our community, and I will do my part to be there for those in need.
One of those organizations is the Idriss Stelley Foundation, a grassroots organization in the Bay Area that offer free support to victims of police violence. I’ll be standing for them and the family of the late O’Shaine Evans—on Sunday night in addition to making a donation from my Tackle Change program to further the meaningful work of this group.
I really appreciate the support from my family, teammates, coaches and fans. I’m grateful for those who have taken the time to hear me out.
I’m excited for what all of us can accomplish when we truly work together.
Marshall wasn’t just kneeling for the sake of kneeling. Rather, he stuck to his word, got involved in the community and donated money in order to evoke change. So far his efforts have paid off.
