Rep. Al Green from Texas was removed from the State of the Union address for the second consecutive time, this time for showcasing a protest sign that read, 'BLACK PEOPLE AREN'T APES!' This was in reaction to a controversial social media video shared by President Trump that had depicted Democratic figures as characters from 'The Lion King,' which Green and others deemed racist. Despite being forcibly removed, Green expressed his determination to raise awareness about racial issues, aligning his actions with those of historical civil rights figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks.

During a press interaction following his removal, Green justified his decision to protest by drawing on the legacy of those who faced imprisonment for standing up against injustice. He emphasized that taking a stand, like Rosa Parks did when she refused to give up her seat, is critical in the fight against racism and discrimination. Green highlighted that while such actions can lead to vilification, they are necessary for societal progress.

Green's statements and actions illustrate the ongoing tensions in the current political climate surrounding race and identity. By positioning himself alongside iconic figures of the civil rights movement, he seeks to provoke discussion and challenge what he sees as a normalization of racist rhetoric in politics. This incident adds to the broader national conversation about race relations, representation, and the responsibility of public officials to confront injustices, regardless of potential consequences.