The NFL has issued a statement on behalf of commissioner Roger Goodell about the nationwide protests sparked by the deaths of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, purporting to empathize with protestors.

"The NFL family is greatly saddened by the tragic events across our country. The protesters' reactions to these incidents reflect the pain, anger and frustration that so many of us feel," the statement begins. "Our deepest condolences go out to the family of Mr. George Floyd and to those who have lost loved ones, including the families of Ms. Breonna Taylor in Louisville, and Mr. Ahmaud Abrery, the cousin of Tracy Walker of the Detroit Lions."

The statement continues, "As current events dramatically underscore, there remains much more to do as a country and as a league. These tragedies inform the NFL's commitment and our ongoing efforts.There remains an urgent need for action. We recognize the power of our platform in communities and as part of the fabric of American society. We embrace that responsibility and are committed to continuing the important work to address these systemic issues with our players, clubs and partners."

The league was immediately called out by journalist Jemele Hill for its blatant hypocrisy:

The NFL's record on race relations is far from admirable, and the league is being particularly called out for making a statement supporting protesters after its treatment of former player Colin Kaepernick, whose peaceful protesting got him fired from the NFL.