Mark Humphrey / Associated Press
Almost a month after a Confederation flag was flown over Talladega Speedway in June, a flag was seen waving over Bristol Motor Speedway on the Wednesday before the NASCAR All-Star Race.
Confederate flags and images have been banned at all NASCAR races and venues since June 10, and the organization says it works. “contrary to our commitment to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for all fans, our competitors and our industry. “
According to USA TodayMike Hembree, Wednesday’s banner featured an ad for the Sons of Confederate Veterans organization, which previously claimed responsibility for the Talladega cartel
“NASCAR’s ban on its fans displaying the Confederate battle flag is nothing less than trampling on the First Amendment right of free expression of the Southerners,” said SCV Commander-in-Chief Paul C. Gramling Jr. following Talladega, by James Bennett of the Columbia Daily Herald. “This anti-American act will not go unanswered. Members of the Confederate Air Force of Sons of Confederate Veterans disapproved of NASCAR’s trampling on the rights of First Amendment southerners.”
However, as a private company, NASCAR’s decision to ban Confederate images does not violate freedom of expression protections.
No Confederate flags were reported in the stands during the All-Star Race, and the infield was closed to spectators.
The All-Star Open, held shortly before the All-Star Race, featured driver Bubba Wallace, who is currently the only black driver in the Cup Series. Wallace did not qualify for the All-Star Race after a crash. with Michael McDowell.
The Confederate images had long been accepted at NASCAR events, but the sport took action after Wallace called for the flag ban.. NASCAR previously had asked fans not to bring the flag to events or venues.
Wallace drove a car with a #BlackLivesMatter paint job and received support from the sport and fellow drivers to take a stand against racism in the wake of the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis police custody in late May.
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