Rain wasn’t the only thing that dampened NASCAR’s first race of a pandemic-shortened season at the famous Talladega Super Speedway in Alabama Sunday.
The discovery of a noose found in the garage of Bubba Wallace, the only African-American driver in NASCAR’s top tier of racing at least put a dent in a campaign to in recent weeks to repair the sport’s reputation when it comes to race.
Among those drivers who have led the race to do something about race has been none other than El Cajon native Jimmie Johnson.
The longtime NASCAR champion has been championing efforts to move the sport away from a history of being all-white and a history of the confederate flag as a symbol on decals at racing events.
Jimmie Johnson posting on Twitter, “I can’t begin to fathom the pain this action has caused. I stand with you.”
Bubba Wallace tweeted that that he has been overwhelmed by the support from people across the NASCAR industry including other drivers and team members.
And adding, “Together our sport has made a commitment to driving real change and championing a community that is accepting and welcoming of everyone…..“And we will not be deterred by the reprehensible actions of those who seek to spread hate”.
NASCAR officials say the garage area on the track, where the noose was placed, is only open to those given credentials to be there and not fans.
So it was likely one person and does not mean racism is rampant in the sport.But it does signal that when it comes to ending racism, it’s a long way yet to the finish line.
(Photo credit Getty Images)