"Amateur status" rules allow the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) to generate billions of dollars in revenue off the labor of Black athletes, while many of these athletes struggle to pay rent or even put food on the table. 

Under the NCAA’s rules, college players can’t profit from their own image or likeness. Because of their rigorous practice and game schedules, student-athletes cannot work while under scholarship. And because of the rigorous demands the NCAA puts on Black athletes to generate revenue, many find it impossible to earn a degree while they play. Not only are the NCAA's rules denying Black athletes fair compensation, they're robbing players of a chance to get a degree.

But we now have a chance to ensure Black athletes get paid for their work. The California Legislature is pushing for legislation that would allow college athletes to profit from their own names, images, and likenesses. The Fair Pay to Play Act is a step in the right direction for fairness in collegiate sports. The bill has already cleared some serious hurdles but still has one more key votes ahead. Let’s make sure that every California legislator knows that Black athletes deserve fair pay!

Passing this bill in California would pave the way for similar legislation throughout the country, advancing ethical treatment of our student-athletes. But the NCAA is concerned only about its profits and continuing to make billions of dollars off of the backs of Black student-athletes. They are expected to survive on no income while the NCAA, coaches, universities, and sports companies make billions of dollars off their labor. The football and basketball players — mostly Black students — bring in the most money for universities, brands, and TV networks. It is unacceptable for Black student-athletes to struggle when they bring in billions of dollars. It's time to stop the exploitation of Black student-athletes.

Here is the Petition:

Dear Legislator,

I am writing you urgently to request your support for Senate Bill 206 - the Fair Pay to Play Act. "Amateur status" rules allow the NCAA to generate billions of dollars in revenue off the labor of Black athletes, while many of these athletes struggle to pay rent or even put food on the table. They are expected to survive on no income while the NCAA, coaches, universities, and sports companies make billions of dollars off their labor. The Fair Pay to Play Act is a step in the right direction for fairness in collegiate sports. Passing this bill in California would pave the way for similar legislation throughout the country, advancing ethical treatment of our student-athletes. It's time to stop the exploitation of Black student-athletes. Pass the Fair Pay to Play Act!