Recently, NASCAR driver Noah Gragson has put himself in trouble with his social media activity, which many have found highly insensitive. For his actions, Gragson has been suspended by the Legacy Motor Club; for now, the 2-year-old’s successful career looks tumultuous.
Gragson’s actions have also sparked a global discussion on racial issues and have also shed light once again on the brutal murder of George Floyd in 2020. Read to know what Gragson did!
What Did NASCAR Driver Noah Gragson Do?
Noah Gragson, a NASCAR and Legacy Motor Club driver, has recently been suspended indefinitely due to his social media activity. The announcement of his suspension came just before the practice and qualifying for the upcoming race on Sunday. According to reports, Gragson had liked a meme that was insensitive towards George Floyd, which is a very serious issue.
The particular meme featured the face of George Floyd Photoshopped onto the character of Sebastian from Disney’s Little Mermaid, accompanied by the caption “under the knee.” Gragson has expressed his disappointment towards himself for not being careful enough on social media.
It is evident that such actions were inappropriate and have led to significant repercussions for Gragson, as the incident highlights the importance of being mindful of our actions on social media.
Gragson himself has accepted his mistake and expressed sincere regret for his lack of caution and responsibility in his social media activity. In a clear demonstration of his understanding of the gravity of the situation, he has stated that he respects and values individuals of all backgrounds and identities equally.
Gragson has also taken full responsibility for his actions, acknowledging his mistake, and is committed to making amends for it.
Why Was Noah Gragson Suspended?
It came to light that Noah Gragson, the professional driver for Legacy Motor Club, has been suspended indefinitely from participating in the upcoming Cup Series race at Michigan International Speedway. The suspension has been attributed to Gragson’s recent online activity, specifically his liking of a meme that made light of the tragic death of George Floyd.
This action was deemed to be in stark contrast with the values of the team, as expressed in a statement released on social media. In light of this, Gragson, who is 25 years old, will be replaced by Josh Berry for the upcoming race. This incident also served as a timely reminder that public figures’ actions on social media can have significant consequences, not just for individuals but also for organizations that they are associated with.
As per the NASCAR officials, it has been confirmed that Gragson’s conduct has breached Section 4.4.D. of the NASCAR Rule Book, which is specifically designed to address driver behavior.
How Did George Floyd Die?
George Floyd’s death was caused by “cardiopulmonary arrest complicating law enforcement subdual, restraint, and neck compression.”
Apparently, Chauvin held Floyd on his neck, with him kneeling for as long as 10 minutes. Before going limp, Floyd kept repeating that he couldn’t breathe; the autopsy later found out that his heart stopped while he was restrained. Floyd was just 46 years old when the brutal homicide took his life.
On the 7th of July, 2022, Derek Chauvin, a former police officer from Minneapolis, was sentenced to 21 years in prison for violating the civil rights of George Floyd. This decision was reached following a highly publicized trial that brought to light the systemic racism and police brutality experienced by people of color in the United States.
Both the federal and state sentences will be served concurrently, with the Minnesota Department of Corrections estimating Chauvin’s release date to be the 10th of December, 2035.
What do you think will be the fate of Gragson and his career? Do you think the suspension will have a negative impact on his blooming career?
What is your take on such insensitive memes made in the name of humor on social media? Let us know below!
