Sharpton Critiques White House UFC Event

During a segment on “Morning Joe,” host Al Sharpton expressed concerns that the recent UFC event at the White House was a step backward in time, reminiscent of the era of slave owners.

“When we signed the Declaration of Independence 250 years ago, we were still enslaved. Women couldn’t vote, and only white male landowners had that right. If we are to celebrate anything, let’s honor those who initiated the amendments,” Sharpton stated. He emphasized the contradictions of the Founding Fathers, who proclaimed rights yet excluded many. “We need to voice this truth boldly,” he added.

Sharpton announced plans to march to Washington, coinciding with the 63rd anniversary of the March on Washington, saying, “Yes, we need to acknowledge how far we’ve come from slavery to having a president of color, but it was not without struggle. We’ve endured imprisonment, beatings, and numerous challenges to reach this point.” He highlighted the ongoing battles against redistricting efforts and figures like Trump, who he believes aim to revert the nation to its troubling past. “There’s a reason for the strife happening at events like these. They’re watching these matches reminiscent of slave owners while attempting to reclaim that narrative,” he said.

Sharpton also recalled Trump’s early presidency, mentioning a portrait of Andrew Jackson placed in the Oval Office. “Jackson is linked to the significant Dred Scott ruling. Why didn’t anyone question Trump’s choice of Jackson? I barely learned about him in school,” he remarked, warning that this inclination towards figures like Jackson represents a regressive vision. “We must fight this with all we have.”