NASCAR launches new campaign to promote diversity, end racism

By Tom Jensen, Tom Jensen

Published June 11, 2016

BROOKLYN, MI - JUNE 10: Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Kobalt Chevrolet, stands on the grid during qualifying for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series FireKeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway on June 11, 2016 in Brooklyn, Michigan. (Photo by Drew Hallowell/Getty Images )

NASCAR and the Ross Initiative in Sports for Equality (RISE) have launched a new campaign to promote diversity, inclusion and equality both in sports and in the community at large.

As part of the campaign, there is a public service announcement with six-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson, 2015 Daytona 500 winner Joey Logano, 2014 Coke Zero 400 winner Aric Almirola and NASCAR Drive for Diversity graduates Kyle Larson and Darrell Wallace Jr.

The PSA encourages fans to take the pledge to end racism at RISEtoWin.org. It will air during NASCAR national series races this weekend on FS1, culminating with Sunday's FireKeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway (FS1, 11:30 a.m. ET).

NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France is a founding member of the RISE Board of Directors. RISE was founded by Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross.

"Discrimination has no place in our society, which is why we have partnered with RISE and Stephen Ross to help put an end to intolerance in sports," France said. "With the help of our talented drivers who support this important message, we want to reinforce our sport's unwavering commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion."

"We believe the ideals and values associated with sports can serve as a unifier for positive change," Ross said. "I want to thank NASCAR for its commitment to RISE and our mission to advance race relations and drive social progress."

URL

https://www.foxnews.com/sports/nascar-launches-new-campaign-to-promote-diversity-end-racism