The NFL — beholden to brands and its middle-America fanbase — often drags its feet when we would have it march. When we would have it use its massive platform for progress, instead of profit. On issues of leadership diversity, domestic violence advocacy, player safety and brain trauma, the league has been slow to transcend public relations for the public good.
Human interest isn't as sharp as a corporate credit card, so it doesn't break the shield.
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But let's give credit where credit is due: In Georgia, a bill branded as religious freedom — and seen by many as a license to discriminate against LGBT citizens — sits on the desk of Governor Nathan Deal, awaiting signature or veto.