The outrage from the death of an unarmed African-American man in Minnesota continues to resonate, with Miami Heat center Meyers Leonard expressing his embarrassment at his self-described status as a “white privileged male.”
You know what. I’m just going to say it.. I’ve become (at times) embarrassed to be a white privellaged male in this country. The bullshit hatred and racism has GOT TO STOP. I just don’t understand. I was raised to love all people. RIP George Floyd and many others. #IVEHADENOUGH
— Meyers Leonard (@MeyersLeonard) May 28, 2020
George Floyd was the man who died on Monday night in Minnesota, with his death the latest racially-connected tragedy within the United States.
Leonard grew up in Robinson, Ill., a predominantly white community, but played for two years at the University of Illinois and is in his eighth NBA season. On the court, Leonard has never had a problem interacting with African-American teammates, coaches or opponents.
In his first season as a member of the Heat, the 28-year-old Leonard has served as the team’s starting center, averaging 6.1 points, 5.1 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game in 49 contests.
At present, Leonard is in the final year of a four-year, $41 million deal that he signed in 2016 when he played for the Portland Trail Blazers. Leonard’s pay grade might cause some to believe that such a high level of income would insulate him from the tragedy that befell Floyd and others.
Yet, Leonard has shown over the course of his career that he possesses a social conscience and cares about others. His departure from Portland last year led to a flood of praiseworthy comments toward the veteran.
Leonard and the rest of his Heat teammates are currently waiting for the NBA to give the go-ahead to resume the 2019-20 season, one which in he and the team are hoping to make an extended postseason run.
