NFL star DeAndre Hopkins calls for name change to Clemson building
Clemson fans have long wondered why NFL star DeAndre Hopkins refers to himself as a Daniel High alum instead of a Clemson product during introductions for prime time NFL games. On Monday, arguably the best receiver in the world explained why.
Hopkins said on an Instagram post that he doesn’t associate himself with Clemson during introductions because of the university’s ties to John C. Calhoun.
The South Carolina native and politician, who was the vice president of the United States from 1825-1832, is well known for his pro-slavery stance. The Clemson University website says Calhoun “declared that slavery was not an ‘evil,’ but rather a ‘positive good.’”
The honors college on Clemson’s campus is named the “Calhoun Honors College” after John Calhoun.
“As we watch everything happening in the world, I want to bring up something that has been bothering me for a long time in my community,” Hopkins posted on social media. “Clemson University still honors the name of well known slave owner and pro-slavery politician John C. Calhoun on its buildings, signs, and in the name of its honors program.”
A petition was started four days ago to change the name of the building.
As of early Monday evening it had more than 300 signatures.
“I felt this oppressive figure during my time at Clemson and purposely do not mention the university’s name before NFL games because of it. I am joining the voices of the students and faculty who have restarted this petition to rename the Calhoun Honors College,” Hopkins said. “I urge all Clemson students, football players, and alumni to join us, so the next generation of young black leaders can be proud of the institution they graduated from. Now is the time for change.”
Hopkins, who was traded to the Arizona Cardinals this offseason, has been named first-team All-Pro each of the past three seasons.
The Central, South Carolina native caught 104 passes for 1,165 yards and seven touchdowns last season.
Hopkins starred at Clemson from 2010-2012, catching 82 passes for 1,405 yards and 18 touchdowns as a junior before turning pro.
This story was originally published June 8, 2020 at 5:53 PM with the headline "NFL star DeAndre Hopkins calls for name change to Clemson building."
