A few days ago NASCAR made history when a “Black Lives Matter” driven by car took to the track. On Saturday Xfinity Series driver Kyle Weatherman showed up with a “Blue Lives Matter” paint job on his ride during the Dixie Vodka 250. The Chevy Camaro was part of the Mike Harmon Racing crew and had the hashtag #BlackTheBlue. ‍

Kyle also tweeted his support for law enforcement officers and First Responders. At the hood of the Camaro is a Thin Blue Line flag paying homage to the Blue Lives Organization that stands up for police officers. The 22-year old racer came out in position 33 out 37 during the Saturday race. 

‍Bubba Wallace is the only African American participating in the top series. He drives a Richard Petty Motorsport Chevrolet numbered 43. On the hood of the repainted car are the words “compassion, love, understanding”. 26-year old Wallace whose father is white and mother is black has been very vocal in his support for the Black Lives Matter concerns.

‍

‍

A string of deaths on African Americans has sparked nationwide protests against police brutality and racial injustice. Among the most prominent deaths are  Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd whose recent execution went viral.

The confederate flag which has been a fixture of NASCAR’s southern culture is banned from all their events as per their released statement. 

Some drivers weren’t too pleased with the new measures. Ray Ciccarelli the Truck Series driver announced that he will leave the sport at the end of the season. He has driven in 32 races and is yet to register a win. ‍

NASCAR has had a controversial past when it comes to race. One low moment was back in April when driver Kyle Larson was fired after saying the ‘N’ word during a live-stream virtual race.