Steelers President Issues Statement On Social Justice, Racism

PITTSBURGH, PA — Steelers president Art Rooney II issued a statement Thursday addressing the team's social justice initiatives, there days after offensive lineman Alejandro Villanueva declined to wear Antwon Rose II's name on the back of his helmet. The rest of the Steelers team displayed the name.

Rose, 17, a Woodland Hills High School student, was shot to death in 2018 while fleeing from East Pittsburgh police officer Michael Rosfeld following a traffic stop. Rosfeld last year was acquitted on homicide charges last year in connection with the incident.

Instead of wearing Rose's name, Villanuava wrote the name of Army Sgt. 1st Class Alwyn Cash on the back of his helmet. Cash was posthumously awarded a Medal of Honor for his service in Iraq. Rose's family has criticized the move.

Rooney said Tuesday that the Steelers organization respects the decisions of each player, coach
and staff member relating to how to express themselves on social justice topics.

"We will continue to support our social initiatives to fight against social injustice and systemic racism not only in our area, but around the country," he said.

"Along the way, we understand that individually we may say or do things that are not universally accepted. There will be uncomfortable conversations. But we will strive to be a force for unity in our efforts to support a more just society.

"With our support, our players have and will support our communities to address these issues with tangible actions. Our players have done an amazing job in helping create social justice platforms that we have already begun participating in this year. But we know there is still
work to be done. This season our primary focuses in terms of social justice funds and activities will be voter registration and awareness, community and police forums, and education and community investment.

"I am proud of the way our players have responded to the need for greater efforts to bring awareness and changes to combat racism and social injustice. I know they will continue to be leaders in our communities and their hometowns."