For the first time since 2021, the "End Racism" message will not be displayed in the end zones at the Super Bowl. Instead, the phrases "Choose Love" and "It Takes All of Us" will be featured behind the end zones at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy confirmed this change to USA TODAY Sports.
Chiefs will face Eagles in Super Bowl 59 on Sunday.
A Shift in Messaging
McCarthy explained that the decision was influenced by several tragic events across the United States at the beginning of the year.
"The Super Bowl is often a snapshot in time, and the NFL is in a unique position to capture and lift the imagination of the country," McCarthy stated. "'Choose Love' is appropriate to use as our country has endured, in recent weeks, wildfires in Southern California, the terrorist attack here in New Orleans, the plane and helicopter crash near our nation’s capital, and the plane crash in Philadelphia."
Evolution of NFL’s Social Initiatives
The league first introduced the "End Racism" message in the end zones during the 2020 season as part of its "Inspire Change" campaign. The initiative was expanded in 2021 and continued in various forms throughout recent seasons. However, The Athletic reported that the decision to remove the slogan for Super Bowl 59 was communicated to high-ranking league officials earlier this week.
Notably, the AFC Championship Game, hosted by the Kansas City Chiefs, did not feature the "End Racism" message, while the NFC Championship Game, hosted by the Philadelphia Eagles, did.
Roger Goodell Reaffirms Commitment to Diversity
During a Monday press conference, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell emphasized that the league remains committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, even as other corporations have scaled back such efforts in recent years.
"We got into diversity efforts because we felt 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, I think we've proven ourselves that it does make the NFL better," Goodell stated.
He reiterated that the league’s DEI initiatives are not a passing trend but a core value aimed at ensuring the NFL attracts the best talent, both on and off the field.
"We see how it has benefited the National Football League," Goodell added. "And so, I think we'll continue those efforts. I think it's also clearly a reflection of our fan base, our communities, and our players."
Trump Expected to Attend Super Bowl 59
In related news, the White House announced on Tuesday that former President Donald Trump is scheduled to attend Super Bowl 59, adding an additional layer of political interest to the high-profile event.
Latest Super Bowl Odds
According to BetMGM NFL odds, the Chiefs are favored to claim victory over the Eagles in Super Bowl 59. Bettors looking to place wagers can explore top mobile sports betting apps featuring NFL betting promotions for 2024, including the ESPN BET app and Fanatics Sportsbook promo code.
Spread: Chiefs (-1.5)
Moneyline: Chiefs (-130); Eagles (+110)
Over/Under: 49