The PGA Tour are determined to show their commitment to social unrest through action as protests continue in the United States and around the world following the death of George Floyd.
Floyd’s horrific murder came to light when a video emerged of a police officer kneeling on his neck for almost nine minutes before medics arrived to the scene.
The pictures sparked immediate outrage and while the officer in question has since been charged, a subsequent #BlackLivesMatter campaign has been ongoing around the globe, including at home here in Ireland.
Golfers have been vocal in their support of the movement with Jon Rahm, Tiger Woods and Harold Varner III amongst those adding their voice to the fight on social media.
The PGA Tour, meanwhile, had been notable by their absence of public comment but ahead of the Tour’s return at this week’s Charles Schwab Challenge, Commissioner Jay Monahan insists the Tour should be judged on how they act and not what they say as the battle for racial equality continues.
“The reality is, making a statement is one thing, and when players are compelled to do so, then that’s exactly what they should do,” said Monahan to Sky Sports News.
“But as the leader of this organisation, anything that I’m going to say I want to make sure it’s part of the solution. And I’m not sure what the solution is right now.
“As I’ve said to the players and employees, this unrest is unacceptable and it’s got to stop. I don’t think there is any debate about that. So, for us, it’s a matter of what we can do to make a difference and be part of the solution.
“That’s what we’re committed to doing and I think, for any organisation, it’s not a matter of not necessarily what you say at the time, I’ve been very clear that this is wrong. But I think it’s a matter of what you do.
“We are an organisation of action. Nobody does more for the communities where we play than we do, and nobody has a better soul in a moment like this. I think that will be on full display as we go forward.”
On Monday, thousands queued to bid farewell to Floyd who was laid out in an open coffin in Houston. His funeral takes place today [Tuesday].
The detained officer, Derek Chauvin, who took Floyd’s life, has had his bail set at $1.25 million.
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