Reference no: EM133476074

Assignment:

1. As Dave Zirin points out, we often hear phrases such as, "Politics and sports don't mix." However, under closer examination in Not Just a Game, it is evident that sports and athleteshave played a key role in shaping our cultural, social, and political awareness andunderstanding in society. Whether facing their own challenges or not, being an athlete oftenprovides a podium and access to media that is not always available. Modern athletes alsohave the benefit of social media. However, it is additionally important to consider teamowners, funders, sponsors, etc. as well as the politics, goals, and wealth that they bring to thecompetition.

a) How are sports and politics currently and historically intertwined within our society? (I encourage you to use examples from the documentary.)

b) How have sports and athletes impacted social change and social inclusion? How hassports culture also maintained the status quo (think intersectionally: race, class,gender, sexual orientation, ability, etc.)?

2. Although Colin Kaepernick's protest against police brutality and racial inequality began afterthe completion of Dave Zirin's Documentary, how can you identify similarities in his protest andactivism within the context of sports to past activists documented in Not Just a Game (orothers)? What social, cultural, and institutional challenges has he faced in the process of workingtowards social change?