‘DEI is so vital,’ Emmitt Smith says after Reggie Jackson shares experiences with racism

Diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives “must exist,” says NFL Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith. The three-time Super Bowl champion said he was inspired to speak out after hearing MLB legend Reggie Jackson share his own experiences with racism.

Jackson appeared on a pre-game broadcast before the Giants and Cardinals squared off Thursday at Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama. to honor the Negro Leagues.

“I walked into restaurants and they would say ‘that n—— can’t eat here,” the MLB Hall of Famer said.

Smith said he spent the last few days ruminating on Jackson’s experiences and came to a conclusion — the U.S. still needs diversity programs.

“His truth is a reminder of the pain and suffering endured by many of our Black ancestors, including significant sports figures,” the former Dallas Cowboys running back wrote on X. “Few legends like him are alive to share their stories and shed light on the racist history of this. This is why DEI is so vital for the progress of this nation.”

The Florida product has long been a local supporter of diversity initiatives, which have become increasingly controversial in recent years. In March, Smith criticized his alma mater when it eliminated its diversity, equity and inclusion department, firing 13 employees in the process.

“People with power, money and influence must acknowledge these horrifying times when America failed Black and Brown people to dismantle the systemic racial systems that exist today,” the NFL’s all-time leading rusher wrote. “These stories must be heard so we don’t make the same mistakes over and over again.”