Police brutality, specifically towards black people, has been an ongoing issue in the United States for years. The most recent example was Stephon Clark who was shot multiple times and killed by police officers in Sacramento allegedly because the officers believed his cell phone was a weapon.
On Thursday, fans protested outside of the Golden 1 Center, home of the Sacramento Kings, forcing the game to be delayed as they spoke out for justice.
Due to the proximity with the Kings, the protests quickly spread to the NBA world as Kings owner Vivek Ranadive gave a speech following the game to ask for unity and change.
Lakers’ rookie Kyle Kuzma gave his own thoughts on the subject through several Twitter posts.
Justice for #StephonClark. Tough to hear about this tragedy.
— kuz (@kylekuzma) March 23, 2018
We need to improve the connection between cops and urban communities…. truth is many of us minorites are scared/panic when we come across cops even though they are suppose to protect us. Must change this.
— kuz (@kylekuzma) March 23, 2018
You’re the cop… if you think someone has a gun and you feel threatened what are you going to do…. easier said then done… we need better training and techniques for cops from the jump. https://t.co/HAUE5hlCRw
— kuz (@kylekuzma) March 23, 2018
Yes it’s because of stereotypes that African-Americans have been given since slavery sad but it’s the truth. Another thing that needs to be fix but won’t because it’s been pounded in our minds for hundreds of years. https://t.co/pEJCgD1v6Z
— kuz (@kylekuzma) March 23, 2018
Kuzma has been vocal about social issues before, namely making his opinions about the water crisis in his hometown of Flint, Michigan well known.
Athletes have an immense platform they can use to spread the word about important, tragic events in this country and be the voices for people championing change. Kuzma, despite his youth, is among those leading the charge.
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