The National Football League (NFL) organization’s delivery of the LIX Super Bowl showcased intentional inclusion, and for that, we highlight them as this week’s inclusion hero. The NFL has had challenges, but today, it reinforces its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion when other companies have pivoted in various ways. The NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell, has not remained silent during turbulent times but instead has championed the benefits of inclusion for its organization. This article will highlight the NFL’s history around diversity, equity, and inclusion and how it’s effectively embraced inclusive leadership in Super Bowl LIX.
NFL History And Challenges Around Inclusion
The NFL has had a checkered past when it comes to inclusion. Reports say racial diversity was very slim in the 1900s. There was a lack of Black Quarterbacks and only two Black Players in the NFL in 1933. For the next twelve years, no black players were in the NFL. The Rooney Rule was implemented in the next decade, allowing more representation in hiring pipelines and leadership. Much noise has continued around the outcomes of the Rooney Rule. Before the Rooney Rule, there were only five Black Head Coaches in the NFL; now, there are four Head Coaches.
Additionally, the NFL’s anti-kneeling response to former Quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s taking a knee during the pledge of allegiance caused concerns for many. After George Floyd’s murder, the NFL made multi-million dollar investments and implemented signage and additional programming to create a more inclusive sport.
Inclusion Makes A Big Play At Super Bowl LIX Game
The Super Bowl LIX game, with over one hundred million viewers, has been widely discussed, with one of the topics being the noticeable nods to harmony and togetherness, aka inclusion. One example was a monologue by actor Brad Pitt highlighting the benefits of togetherness. Another was inclusive commercials with messaging about how women and girls can break glass ceilings. Seeing the intentionality and strategy that went into planning and executing the games was refreshing. While we don’t have a close-up behind the scenes, we benefit from that work that says there’s a place for everyone at these games. Remember, inclusion in one form or another has been on the minds of many before, during, and after the Super Bowl. As discussed in my previous articles, DEI stigma and banning continue to be on the rise. The Super Bowl provided a reprieve and a dose of empowerment with many messages and moments that left a lingering impact.
Diverse Perspectives Make for Better Decision-Making
The NFL has partners to determine the half-time show for the Super Bowl. Among its partnerships is the entertainment company Roc Nation, led by Shawn Carter. Having diverse perspectives in conversations around business efforts has proven effective from an inclusive leadership standpoint. Organizations that do so can avoid glaring missteps that bring about negative branding experiences. Over the years, the NFL has used diverse talent for its widely consumed half-time show.
Expanded Reach Invites More Inclusion
The NFL is partnering with the National Association of the Deaf to broaden the reachability of the Super Bowl games. Sign language interpreters were on hand this year to share communications during the game. American Sign Language has appeared in pregame songs dating back to 2007. In 2022, the ASL increased its participation with interpretation availability during the half-time game.
Say Yes To Inclusion In Entertainment
The LIX Super Bowl entertainment showcased Nobel Peace Prize Winner and Rapper Kendrick Lamar, whose performance has left an impactful stamp with messaging many are still working to unpack. One example is Lamar’s nod to Uncle Sam, a persona representative of the United States as a whole, which dates back to an introduction in the mid-1800s. Fast-forward to the 1900s when the US government used Uncle Sam in marketing materials to enlist individuals in the military. In Super Bowl LIX, Uncle Sam, played by award-winning actor Samuel Jackson, appeared during the half-time show. In the skit, Uncle Sam narrates authoritatively and gives feedback on making the performance palatable for the audience. Lamar’s response is to use his music to demonstrate Black Empowerment and what’s possible for the Black Community.
What can Inclusive Leaders learn from the NFL?
It’s never too late to get in on the inclusion journey. Being open to differences is a good thing and is the business case for the future of work.