Chris Long: 'I'm Here To Show Support As A White Athlete'
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Chris Long supported Malcolm Jenkins during his National Anthem protest before Thursday's Eagles-Bills preseason game. Long wrapped his left arm around Jenkins, who held up his fist during the National Anthem -- something Jenkins has been doing since Week 2 of last season.
Chris Long put his arm around Malcolm Jenkins in support of his national anthem protest. pic.twitter.com/Rc7mM4sOqk
— SB Nation (@SBNation) August 18, 2017
"I've heard a lot of people say, 'Why do athletes get involved in the national anthem protests?' I've said before that I'll never kneel for an anthem because the flag means something different for everybody in this country, but I support my peers," Long said via CSNPhilly.com. "If you don't see why you need allies for people that are fighting for equality right now, I don't think you'll ever see it.
"Malcolm is a leader and I'm here to show support as a white athlete."
Chris Long: I thought it was important that athletes with my skin color stood up with others protesting for racial equality. pic.twitter.com/y0DFHHh2Ax
— Jeff McLane (@Jeff_McLane) August 18, 2017
Long has been outspoken about the events last weekend in Charlottesville, which is Long's hometown. Long criticized President Donald Trump's response to the racial tension and violence.
Related: Malcolm Jenkins Calls NFL Teams 'Cowards' For Not Signing Colin Kaepernick
According to Jeff McLane, Eagles defensive tackle Gabe Wright told Long, "I'm honored to have shared a locker with you."
"I'm honored to have shared a locker with you." - #Eagles DT Gabe Wright to Chris Long, following his news conference on his anthem gesture.
— Jeff McLane (@Jeff_McLane) August 18, 2017