Michael Bennett Explained Why He Won’t Join Other NFL Players On A ‘Good Will’ Trip To Israel

A number of NFL players are scheduled to go on a trip to Israel sponsored by the Israeli government to create “ambassadors of good will,” but Seahawks defensive end Michael Bennett has announced that he has withdrawn his name from the trip after further consideration.

According to the Times of Israel, a group of 12 players was scheduled to make the trip next week at the behest of Israel’s tourism and public diplomacy ministries. Bennett made an announcement on Thursday that he won’t be going, and then elaborated on Friday in an open letter posted on Twitter.

In his explanation, Bennett said he wasn’t aware that the itinerary for his trip was being put together by the Israeli government until the Times of Israel article was published, and said he didn’t want to be “used” because he is an influencer.

He notes that he has a desire to visit the country, but on his own terms so he can see not just the historical and religious sites planned on the trip by the Israeli government, but to also take a trip to the West Bank and Gaza to see Palestinians. Bennett cites his inspiration from Muhammed Ali, who was an ally of the Palestinian people, and that to be a “voice for the voiceless” he can’t go on a government sponsored trip put on by Israel that would not take him to areas occupied by Palestinians.

Following Bennett’s letter, another player scheduled to make the trip — Kenny Stills — announced he would not be attending, and there may be more (including Bennett’s brother Martellus, who announced after the Super Bowl he wouldn’t go to the White House) that join him in skipping the trip.

(h/t For The Win)