NFL Shifts Focus: ‘End Racism’ Phrase Excluded from Super Bowl LIX End Zones

NFL Shifts Focus: ‘End Racism’ Phrase Excluded from Super Bowl LIX End Zones

The National Football League (NFL) has opted to remove the phrase “End Racism” from the end zones for the upcoming Super Bowl LIX, set to feature the Kansas City Chiefs against the Philadelphia Eagles. The game will take place at the iconic Caesars Superdome this Sunday.

New Messages Take Center Stage

In place of the previous slogan, the NFL will showcase the phrases “Choose Love” and “It Takes All of Us” in the end zones. NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy announced the decision on Tuesday, attributing the change to the widespread tragedies that have unfolded across the U.S. throughout 2025, including a terror attack in New Orleans, devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, and a lethal plane crash near Washington, D.C.

Inspiration Amid National Challenges

McCarthy remarked, “We felt it was an appropriate statement for what the country has collectively endured, given recent tragedies, and can serve as an inspiration in these challenging times.” This shift reflects the NFL’s current stance on social messaging during crucial events, particularly in light of recent incidents.

A Brief History of Social Messaging in the NFL

The “End Racism” stencil first appeared in the league in 2020, following a summer marked by racial unrest in America. This phrase was prominently displayed in the Chiefs’ end zone during last year’s Super Bowl. Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers opted for the phrase “It Takes All of Us” during the same event.

Defending a Commitment to Diversity

The decision comes amidst ongoing discussions regarding the NFL’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has repeatedly defended the league’s DEI policies, emphasizing their importance in shaping the NFL’s future.

Goodell stated, “We got into diversity efforts because we felt like it was the right thing for the National Football League, and we’re going to continue those efforts because we’ve not only convinced ourselves, we’ve proven ourselves, that it does make the NFL better.” He maintained that these initiatives are not a passing trend but rather a commitment to embracing diversity across the league.

Aiming for Talent on and off the Field

The commissioner highlighted the significance of DEI in attracting top talent, both on the field and within league offices. “Our efforts are fundamental in trying to attract the best possible talent in the National Football League, as I said previously. We see how it benefits the NFL, and so I think we’ll continue those efforts,” Goodell affirmed.

Reflections of the Fan Base

Goodell believes the league’s diversity initiatives reflect the diverse fabric of its fan base and communities. He mentioned, “It’s also clearly a reflection on our fan base and our communities and our players. People talk a lot about the Rooney Rule… for us, there’s no requirement to hire a particular individual on the basis of race or gender. It’s simply looking at a campus of candidates that reflect our communities.”

He also reiterated how companies around the world view similar practices as beneficial for business. Ultimately, the NFL aims to set a strong precedent for hiring practices, enhancing its commitment to diversity and inclusion in every facet of the organization.

Embracing Positive Change

As the NFL prepares for Super Bowl LIX, the shift from “End Racism” to messages like “Choose Love” signifies a proactive response to current events coupled with a desire to spread positivity. The league’s actions will undoubtedly resonate within its vast audience, potentially inspiring positive dialogues during one of America’s largest sporting spectacles.

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