Indiana Pacers guard Malcolm Brogdon has been one of the most outspoken NBA players in the wake of the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police last week. The former Rookie of the Year winner not only participated in the peaceful protests in his hometown of Atlanta, but Brogdon also addressed the crowd in attendance.
Brogdon has now taken his next step in the fight against racial injustice by penning a powerful opinion piece for USA TODAY Sports. According to the 27-year-old, black people are fighting “two viruses” in the nation today:
On one hand, the global pandemic brought on by COVID-19 is disproportionately impacting black communities. The other virus – racism and its impact on black communities in America – is also alive and well.
I am angry that I had to watch, once again, an unarmed black man deliberately killed by police. I am pained, outraged and scared for our country, for my friends and for my family.
The Pacers guard spoke about the journey he took prior to deciding that it was time for him to stand up, speak out, and be heard. The 6-foot-5 guard admitted to being nervous at first, but was quickly appeased by the thought that he stood in unity with thousands of other protesters across the nation who are all fighting for the same cause: fighting against the injustice of systemic racism that has led to so many unnecessary deaths.
Toward the end of his piece, Brogdon provided a number of specific points that he thinks will serve as the necessary next steps in the fight against racial discrimination:
We must have justice for George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, and those responsible for their deaths must be held accountable.
We must see the humanity in each other, so that we can lead with compassion, rather than hate.
We must tear down the barriers erected to prevent our participation in elections. And we must vote at every level – local, state and federal – to support the people who will fight for us.
We all must educate ourselves and participate. Together we can fight for the change that enables our country to live up to its promise for all of its citizens.
These are some very powerful and inspiring words from Brogdon right here, and kudos to the Pacers guard for refusing to just shut up and dribble.
Follow Us
Subscribe