The Signals of Racism: NASCAR’s Unwanted Radio Incident After North Wilkesboro

Radio Incident Targets Bubba Wallace After North Wilkesboro Speedway All-Star Race

On May 23, 2023, during the All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway, someone hacked into the communication radio for Bubba Wallace and sent a derogatory message that told Wallace to “go back to where you came from” and called him a derogatory name. The perpetrator also stated that the driver was “not wanted in NASCAR.” According to motorport.com, Wallace did not hear the comments being made. NASCAR has launched an investigation into the incident. Bubba Wallace is the only full-time Black driver in NASCAR‘s Cup series.

On Being the ‘Black Driver’

On November 8, 2017, Wallace tweeted: “There is only 1 driver from an African American background at the top level of our sport..I am the 1. You’re not gonna stop hearing about ‘the black driver’ for years. Embrace it, accept it and enjoy the journey.” His message speaks to the fact that, in an industry that has historically been dominated by the white majority, he has had to bear the weight of being the only Black driver on the track. In 2021, the United States of America is still grappling with the evils of racism; it is no wonder that people of color feel like outsiders in certain spaces.

The Decay of Racism in NASCAR

Two years ago, NASCAR banned the Confederate flag from all its events after Bubba Wallace called for the flag’s removal from the sport. Bubba’s call for change came after the murder of George Floyd. The flag, in the eyes of many, symbolized hatred and represented the brutal oppression that had fallen upon African Americans for over 400 years, especially during the Jim Crow era and the Civil Rights Movement.

The elimination of the Confederate flag from all NASCAR events was a win in the fight against racism. Yet, this latest radio incident shows how much work must still be done to curb the rise of racism in the sport. The perpetrator of the derogatory message targeting Wallace must be caught and held accountable for their actions. Scrutiny must also be applied to NASCAR to ensure that they create inclusive spaces for everyone who wishes to take part in the sport.

Advice

Racism is a cancer in American society, and political efforts must be matched by those in the civil society. Bubba Wallace has had to face a lot of adversity in his career. Nevertheless, his message of hope and resilience continues to inspire younger generations who wish to follow in his footsteps. It is essential to encourage and uplift those who are not intimidated by the systemic obstacles that society throws in their way.

Courage requires more than just marching for a cause. It demands that we stand for what is genuine and right, no matter the cost. Upholding those principles is essential to preserving the traditional American values that our ancestors have handed down to us.

Conclusion

Civil rights battles are costly, but the rewards are immeasurable. Evils like racism can never be eliminated if we do not confront them. Bubba Wallace is not the only individual who has struggled with racism. His voice speaks for many others who suffer due to structural inequalities. NASCAR and all other stakeholders in American sports should work towards creating inclusive environments, where individuals of all races and backgrounds can flourish.