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LaDainian Tomlinson might have been getting inducted into the The Pro Football Hall of Fame, but to be honest, his speech deserves an award, too.
The former NFL running back was among the class of seven new inductees on Saturday evening, and his stirring speech moved the audience so much that they chanted his name throughout the speech. In his remarks, Tomlinson shared the story of his great-great-great grandfather George Tomlinson, who was brought to this country aboard a slave ship from West Africa, 170 years ago.
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"The family legacy that began in such a cruel way has given birth to generations of successful, caring Tomlinsons. I firmly believe God chose me to help bring two races together under one last name," Tomlinson said, explaining his mixed heritage, the legacy of his ancestors enslavement and the history of his last name.
"My story is America's story. All our ancestors, unless we are American Indian, came from another country, another culture. Football is a microcosm of America. All races, religions, creeds are living, playing, and competing side-by-side," he continued. "America is the land of opportunity. Let's not slam the door on those who may look and sound different than us," he demanded, "rather, let's open it wide for those who believe themselves that anything is possible and are willing to compete and take whatever risk necessary to work hard and succeed."
You can watch Tomlinson's full remarks above, with his remarks about his great-great-great grandfather beginning at the 20:00 minute mark.
