Cities all across the United States have been protesting against police brutality and racial injustice following the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery. In New York City.
The Brooklyn Nets, with protestors right outside their front door at Barclays Center, released a joint statement with the G-League Long Island Nets and WNBA New York Liberty to address the losses of Floyd, Taylor, Arbery and many others.
Statement from the Brooklyn Nets, Long Island Nets, New York Liberty, and Barclays Center. pic.twitter.com/HFlYU1HHvC
- Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) May 31, 2020
"We want to say 'Enough is Enough,' the statement read.
"Not all of us can ever be in a position to experience the personal pain, fear and despair of Black Americans in light of the events. But our instinct tells us that the lack of respect for human life, fueled by prejudices, is simply wrong. All people, regardless of color, race or ethnicity, deserve to be treated with human dignity and be protected from violence.
"Our hearts are broken by the attacks on the personal safety and dignity of the Black community. While we feel the raw emotion, we call for a peaceful response in our joint fight against racism. This is not the time to be vengeful. This is a time to effect change."
There are many others in the sports community that have voiced their opinions and made it known that truly "Enough is Enough." Knicks G Dennis Smith Jr. was seen with rapper J. Cole in their home of North Carolina joining protests. Mets All-Star Pete Alonso has also made a statement.
The murder of Floyd has sparked these protests. Minnesota police officer Derek Chauvin, who was arrested and charged with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter, was being told by Floyd 'I can't breathe' while kneeling on his neck. That was for about nine minutes and Floyd later died.
As protests continue, the Nets are taking a stand as well and will continue to work with the community in any way they can.