(CNN) - After helping the Philadelphia Eagles to their first Super Bowl championship on Sunday, Malcolm Jenkins said he was not planning to make the traditional White House visit.
Jenkins, a safety who made four tackles in Philly’s 41-33 win over the New England Patriots, told CNN that, “I personally do not anticipate attending that.”
He added that he did not have a message for President Donald Trump who frequently targeted the NFL and players taking a knee during the national anthem during the season. The players were protesting current conditions for black Americans in the country.
When all the hard work pays off...
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“My message has been clear,” Jenkins said. “I'm about creating positive change in the communities that I come from. Whether it be Philadelphia, New Jersey, Ohio, Louisiana, or this entire country."
At least three more teammates, running back LeGarrette Blount, wide receiver Torrey Smith, and defensive end Chris Long, have said they also will skip the trip.
“I want to see changes in our criminal justice system. I want to see us push for economical and educational advancement in communities of color and low-income communities, and I want to see our relationships between our communities and law enforcement be advanced, Jenkins said.
“That's what myself and my peers have been pushing for the last two years. That's what I will continue to do," he said.
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