The sports world is seemingly coming together in the wake of negative tweets from Donald Trump. He made racist comments last Friday calling players who protest racial injustice “sons of bitches,” calling for their “firing” and rescinding the Warriors invitation to attend the White House as the current NBA champs (though they weren’t going to attend). Add Michael Jordan to the list of big name in the world of sports, making a statement. In a conversation with the Charlotte Observer, the Hornets owner said:
One of the fundamental rights this country is founded on was freedom of speech, and we have a long tradition of nonviolent, peaceful protest. Those who exercise the right to peacefully express themselves should not be demonized or ostracized.
At a time of increasing divisiveness and hate in this country, we should be looking for ways to work together and support each other and not create more division.
I support Commissioner Adam Silver, the NBA, its players and all those who wish to exercise their right to free speech.
A very MJ type of statement. He is saying something but not really saying anything. Freedom of speech is like the dressing on the salad. Divisiveness and hate are also descriptors that talk around the problem.
The issue at stake here, the reason Colin Kaepernick took a knee is the basic humanity of black and brown people. The racial injustices that black and brown people face every day which are supported by Donald Trump and his administration.
These are the things that need to be said by people with power like Michael Jordan. But that has never been his way. Can’t expect him to change now.