The death of George Floyd in Minnesota on Monday has compelled many to speak out against social injustice and police brutality.
As protests were taking place across the country, Friday night two prominent Sixers figures took to social media to convey messages.
The team’s current point guard, Ben Simmons, put out a short statement on Twitter.
Witnessing the news the past few weeks & hearing the outcry has given me a lot to think about. It is time for everyone, from all walks of life, to get comfortable with voicing & calling out the uncomfortable subject of Blatant Racism that exists heavily within our society.
— Ben Simmons (@BenSimmons25) May 30, 2020
pic.twitter.com/bA7jZV3OY6
— Ben Simmons (@BenSimmons25) May 30, 2020
Hall of Famer Allen Iverson’s message was shorter but no less powerful.
Damn, I thought this was our country too???!!! #JusticeForGeorgeFloyd #IStandTallWithYou @_stak5_ #IveHadEnough pic.twitter.com/0fd8ugqVDB
— Allen Iverson (@alleniverson) May 30, 2020
Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, was killed after Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck while Floyd was handcuffed. The incident was caught on video by a witness. Chauvin was arrested Friday afternoon and charged with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. All four officers that were on the scene were fired.
Former NBA player Stephen Jackson, who knew Floyd personally while growing up in Texas, spoke as part of the protests in Minneapolis.
“To my white brothers, I love you. Every race here, I love you. But it comes to a point now, where if you love me and you not standing on the side of me, then your love don’t mean shit.” -Stephen Jackson pic.twitter.com/a0ZZe3fXMN
— Logan Murdock (@loganmmurdock) May 29, 2020
Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns, a little over a month after losing his mother Jacqueline to COVID-19, also stood in solidarity with Jackson.
A ridiculously powerful image of Karl-Anthony Towns, who is still out there showing support for George Floyd despite recently losing his mother to COVID-19. He has proven to be a leader in his community and should be applauded for his tenacity and resilience. Salute, @KarlTowns. https://t.co/mvAMxglyft
— Bryan Kalbrosky (@BryanKalbrosky) May 29, 2020
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