Kyrie Irving caused a stir last week when he tweeted about a movie that some claim is anti-Semitic. The Jewish community was harmed by his actions, and the New Jersey native has since been suspended without pay for the next five games. Nonetheless Kyrie recently issued an apology for his actions and took responsibility of his anti-semitic comments.
I am an OMNIST and I meant no disrespect to anyone’s religious beliefs. The “Anti-Semitic” label that is being pushed on me is not justified and does not reflect the reality or truth I live in everyday. I embrace and want to learn from all walks of life and religions.
Hélà🤞🏾♾
— Hélà (@KyrieIrving) October 29, 2022
In a written statement, Irving said, “I oppose all forms of hatred and oppression” and “stand strong with communities that are marginalized and impacted every day.” The Nets point guard posted a link to the movie Hebrews to Negroes on Twitter: Black America, wake up! The book of the same name, published in 2015, served as the basis for the 2018 film. “Uncovers the true identity of the Children of Israel” is the subtitle of the book. The Counter Maligning Association, alongside a few Jewish rights associations like the American Jewish Congress, has expressed the substance of the film is racist.
Joint statement from Kyrie Irving, the Brooklyn Nets, and the Anti-Defamation League pic.twitter.com/5szamIClsh
— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) November 2, 2022
The team announced on Thursday that the Nets point guard has been suspended for at least five games for “publicizing a film containing deeply disturbing anti-Semitic hate.” According to the Brooklyn Nets, Irving is “currently unfit to be associated with the Brooklyn Nets,” as the team has made several attempts over the past few days through a joint committee to help him understand the negative effects of his words and actions. The Brooklyn Nets and Irving have pledged to give the $500,000 to causes and organizations that work “to eradicate hate and intolerance” in their communities. With the assistance of the Anti-Defamation League, this will be accomplished.
