### Jemele Hill Champions Athlete Activism through New Podcast “Spolitics”
Jemele Hill, a veteran sports journalist and activist, recently discussed the significance of athletes addressing political issues in her upcoming podcast “Spolitics.” During her appearance on TMZ Live, she emphasized how the dynamics shifted when Black athletes began utilizing their platforms for political discourse. Hill shed light on the historical context, recalling how even George Washington employed sports and competitive games to woo voters, illustrating that this intersection of sports and politics is nothing new.
Hill pointed out the challenges faced by Black athletes, who, after breaking color barriers in sports, faced backlash for their outspoken views, which were often labeled as “divisive.” She argues that athletes have every right to express their opinions given their influence.
Her outspoken nature is not new; Hill has been known for her bold criticisms, notably calling former President Donald Trump a “white supremacist,” which resulted in her exit from ESPN. “Spolitics,” set to debut on October 17, promises to further explore these intersections alongside co-host Cari Champion, who also works with Hill on the Vice TV series “Cari & Jemele (Won’t) Stick to Sports.”
Hill encourages athletes to continue engaging in political conversations, urging fans to reconsider the notion that such discussions are divisive. She believes that celebrities, including athletes, have the potential to impact political landscapes significantly.
### FAQ Section
**Q: What is the main theme of Jemele Hill’s podcast “Spolitics”?**
A: “Spolitics” centers around the intersection of sports and politics, examining how athletes engage with political issues.
**Q: Why does Jemele Hill believe it’s important for athletes to speak on political matters?**
A: Hill believes athletes, especially Black athletes, have historically faced backlash for their activism, and it’s vital for them to use their platforms to address societal issues.
**Q: When is the podcast “Spolitics” launching?**
A: The podcast is set to debut on October 17.
**Q: Has Jemele Hill been outspoken about political issues in the past?**
A: Yes, Hill has a history of vocal activism, notably speaking out against former President Trump and criticizing the conservative culture at ESPN.
**Q: Does Jemele Hill think any athletes could influence politics significantly?**
A: Yes, Hill has mentioned specific prominent athletes whom she believes could have a substantial impact on political discourse.
### Conclusion
Jemele Hill’s new podcast, “Spolitics,” aims to foster a dialogue about the crucial role athletes play in political activism. By recounting historical precedents and sharing her insights, Hill encourages both athletes and fans to engage in and reevaluate discussions surrounding sports and politics. As the podcast launches on October 17, it promises to ignite further conversations about activism in athletics and encourage a new wave of engaged citizens in the sports world.