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Why Damar Hamlin’s Story Matters For Worker’s Rights.
Even if you don’t follow football, you should care about Damar Hamlin and all of the players in this league.
As most people have probably heard by now, Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin remains in the ICU in Cincinnati following cardiac arrest on the field during Monday night’s football game against the Cincinnati Bengals. It was a scene that’s replayed countless times in my mind since then. Everything from the look of sheer terror and trauma in Josh Allen’s face, to Siran Neal’s agony and distress all playing out for the entire nation to see as all of this was unfolding is going to stay in my mind for a very, very long time.
Thankfully, positive updates have been given. Damar has opened his eyes, and gripped the hands of his bedside loved ones. I want nothing more than to see him continue to recover, and for his family, friends, and teammates to be able to heal from this trauma. As we all begin to process what we witnessed, we have an obligation to think of the other layers involved in this story as well.
Damar Hamlin’s story is not just about football and the dangers of the sport that these athletes love, but labor rights and protections within this league as well.
