COLUMBUS, Ohio (WTVN)--Ohio State Athetics Director Gene Smith released a statement on Sunday, in support of the Black Lives Matter movement, and in support of Ohio State student-athletes who are protesting for change.
He addressed the activity that student athletes have participated in saying, "Recently, student-athletes have been active on social media platforms denouncing racism, participating in attention and awareness videos promoting Black Lives Matter, holding peaceful demonstrations (Kneel for Nine) and participating in video calls with their teammates and others.
The Ohio State Department of Athletics supports the Black Lives Matter movement. We will continue to support our student-athletes as they participate in driving positive change in America so that every person is respected regardless of the color of their skin."
Many current and former Ohio State student-athletes have participated in the protests against police brutality and racism, following the death of George Floyd while in custody of the Minneapolis Police Department.