NAACP urges pro athletes not to sign with Texas teams

As Sarah Barshop noted for ESPN, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) has sent a letter to players associations from the NFL, NHL, NBA, MLB and WNBA urging free agents in those leagues to avoid signing with clubs located in Texas. 

The request stems from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott approving "new political maps that dilute the political power of communities of color," per the NAACP. The letter also references Abbott signing a widely controversial abortion law and banning COVID-19 vaccine mandates. 

"As we watch an incomprehensible assault on basic human rights unfold in Texas, we are simultaneously witnessing a threat to constitutional guarantees for women, children and marginalized communities," reads part of the NAACP's statement. "Over the past few months, legislators in Texas have passed archaic policies, disguised as laws, that directly violate privacy rights and a woman's freedom to choose, restrict access to free and fair elections for Black and brown voters, and increase the risk of contracting coronavirus. If you are a woman, avoid Texas. If you are Black, avoid Texas. If you want to lower your chances of dying from coronavirus, avoid Texas." 

Texas NAACP President Gary Bledsoe added: "The continued attacks on people of color in the state of Texas are reprehensible. In the absence of federal action, advocates in Texas must stand together and use all of the tools at their disposal to ensure that basic human rights are delivered to the people of Texas. We must fight for our Constitution and the freedoms that it guarantees to all Americans." 

The letter ends: 

"We are now pleading with you — if you are a free agent and are considering employment in Texas, look elsewhere. The Texas government will not protect your family. Demand that Texas owners invest in your rights and protect your investments. Texas is not safe for you, your spouse, or your children. Until the legislation is overturned, Texas isn’t safe for anyone." 

It's unclear if any unions intend to respond to the letter.