Chris Goossens
Superstars around the NBA are standing up for justice - actually, they're kneeling. In light of the news that Kenosha police officer Rusten Sheskey would not face charges for shooting Jacob Blake seven times in the back, they've taken to protesting.
Miami Heat + Boston Celtics Kneel
Last night, the Miami Heat and Boston Celtics both kneed during the National Anthem following the legal announcement. It also came in light of the controversial storming of the Capitol Hill buildings by President Donald Trump supporters.
Heat and Celtics players kneel for anthem.
“BlackLivesStillMatter”
Celtics + Heat Players Release Joint Statement
Players from both teams released a joint statement on the matter. Members of each organization joined forces and let their thoughts on the matters be known. They pointed out how differently protesters were treated now as opposed to last summer, when there was outcry over the murder of innocent Black man George Floyd.
“2021 is a new year, but some things have not changed. We play tonight’s game with a heavy heart after yesterday’s decision in Kenosha, and knowing that protesters in our nation’s capital are treated differently by political leaders depending on what side of certain issues they are on. The drastic difference between the way protesters this past spring and summer were treated and the encouragement given to today’s protestors who acted illegally just shows how much more work we have to do. We have decided to play tonight’s game to try to bring joy into people’s lives. But we must not forget the injustices in our society, and we will continue to use our voices and our platform to highlight these issues and do everything we can to work for a more equal and just America.”
Royce 5’9 Speechless Over Jacob Blake Case
Detroit rapper Royce Da 5’9 doesn’t know what to say. The hip-hop veteran has come forward to share his shocked reaction to Wisconsin police officers connected to the near-death shooting of Blake not having charges filed against them.
“🙄” -Royce Da 5’9’s Instagram
Despite shooting Blake multiple times on August 23rd, Kenosha Police Officer Rusten Sheskey is going to get away with near-murder.
Kenosha police officer will not be charged in the August shooting of Jacob Blake, the Kenosha County District Attorney announced Tuesday. The District Attorney made the announcement at a press conference Tuesday afternoon. D.A. Michael Graveley said his office would not recommend charges against Kenosha Police Officer Rusten Sheskey. (TMJ4)
La La Supports Jacob Blake
In August 2020, actress La La Anthony went to her Instagram page to remind the world Blake was much more than a police brutality victim. La La acknowledged Jacob is also a father, family member and human being.
“Jacob Blake. When you #sayhisname say ALL of them. #justiceforjacobblake #blacklivesmatter” -La La Anthony’s Instagram
The same week, music mogul Diddy went to his Twitter page to react to the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks boycotting its Game 5 – and potential series-ending – face-off against the Orlando Magic. Diddy also highlighted the importance of unity.
“The power of unity! This is dope to see” -Diddy’s Twitter
NBA superstar LeBron James publicly shared his disgust and anger over Blake’s near-death attack at the hands of law enforcement.
“F*CK THIS MAN!!! WE DEMAND CHANGE. SICK OF IT” -LeBron James’ Twitter
