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Blackout Tuesday, Black people in soccer, and more: Freedom Kicks for June 3, 2020

Time to begin the listening.

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Oxford United v Newcastle United - FA Cup Fourth Round: Replay Photo by James Williamson - AMA/Getty Images

It has been a week. It has been a month. It has been a year. It has been a lifetime. As many people paused to observe Blackout Tuesday, it was another day where I woke up scared out of my mind about how it would end. But, while that fear continues, I was encouraged by the number of people who reached out or otherwise showed their support yesterday, and since this nation took the deadly turn that broke us emotionally. People were amplifying the Black voices that should have been amplified long ago.

So, that’s what I’m doing today. Hopefully, MLS will get their deal done and we can put that behind us, but here are some stories from yesterday worth reading.

USMNT defender DeAndre Yedlin: “All we’re asking is we’re seen as equal” - MLS

DeAndre Yedlin with some sobering thoughts about how his grandfather thinks he is safer in England than the United States.

US men’s national team goalkeeper Zack Steffen: “I need to know that my country supports Black lives” - MLS

Zack Steffen releases his views on what’s going on, encouraging people to stand up for the rights of people of color.

Being Black in America: Kei Kamara and CJ Sapong share their experiences with racism amid national protests - MLS

Kei Kamara and CJ Sapong with their detailed brushes with racism here in America.

It’s not meant for your comfort… - Medium

Jeremy Ebobisse pens his own essay, which is incredibly moving and thought-provoking.

Justice - USL Championship

The USL Championship put this story front and center yesterday, and for good reason.

USWNT roundtable: Players share their thoughts, experiences on racism in America - The Athletic

Several USWNT players gathered to discuss their experiences with racism in soccer and America.

There is some good news. Welcome André Carlisle to the Black & Red United squad! He will be covering the Washington Spirit for us!

Finally, as we exit, an off topic look via an essay I wrote that gives you a taste of the pain, anger, and just mental exhaustion we have to battle every day as Black people in America. It will make you uncomfortable, and it’s supposed to do so. Begin to listen to the hurt and educate yourself on how to be a part of the change.