Last weekend’s protests to the national anthem caused many athletes, current and former, to speak up about their loyalty to the flag and our country. NBA players Steph Curry and Lebron James have been very outspoken about the issue and adding fuel to the fire, but when Michael Jordan chose a side…fans were shocked.
NBA legend Jordan has remained silent on most political issues during his career, ever-wary of his need to keep his sponsorship dollars rolling in. In 2016, Jordan took a stand against police brutality against African Americans, and now he’s speaking out about the players protesting the national anthem.
The whole mess started when Curry refused to visit the White House.
LeBron jumped in with his opinion and then expanded on his original tweet with a video
Now Jordan is taking a side. “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,” Jordan said.
Jordan added, “I support Commissioner Adam Silver, the NBA, its players and all those who wish to exercise their right to free speech.”
Social media users aren’t too happy with his comments.