Perry Knotts/AP

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Dallas Cowboys and Florida Gators legend Emmitt Smith believes the recent comments from Reggie Jackson further emphasize the need for diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.

Last week, Jackson made headlines for his harrowing account of the racism he endured early in his professional baseball career. He talked about his experiences live at the MLB’s game at Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama — the country’s oldest professional baseball park in the U.S. and the former home of the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro Leagues.

Despite all the success that later came from his perseverance, Jackson said he’d never do it again.

On Tuesday, Smith released a statement urging for the protection of DEI programs.

“As I’m reflecting on Reggie Jackson’s raw comments from last week, it reinforces why DEI programs and initiatives must exist,” Smith said. “His truth is a reminder of the pain and suffering endured by many of our Black ancestors, including significant sports figures.

“Few legends like him are alive to share their stories

and shed light on the racist history of this. This is why DEI is so vital for the progress of this nation. People with power, money and influence must acknowledge these horrifying times when America failed Black and Brown people to dismantle the systematic racial systems that still exist today. These stories must be heard so we don’t continue to make the same mistakes over and over again.”

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Tags: DEI, Emmitt Smith, Racism, Reggie Jackson