Sheila Jackson Lee: “The head of the NFL said that racism of any kind is unacceptable. Having worked on these issues since the very beginning…”

“The head of the NFL said that racism of any kind is unacceptable. Having worked on these issues since the very beginning of my tenure in the United States Congress, including hearings in Houston on brain injuries that were undiagnosed, I take a special interest in the Brian Flores lawsuit for the reality that it means something is wrong and it must be changed. Yesterday, I honored a Houston Texan who had a great history. Today, as I tweeted early this morning, the vacancy should be filled by Lovie Smith, an African American, a coach for the Houston Texans. Later today they announced that Lovie Smith will be the new coach. With experience having taken the Chicago team to the Super Bowl, could it be anyone else? Now, we need to begin to assess how we can act on the words ``racism is unacceptable'' in any sport in any part of America's life. I am excited. Congratulations to Coach Smith and to the Houston Texans. But let us acknowledge David Culley and go forward so that the example can be across the landscape of sports wherever it is and across the Nation. ____________________”