These questions seem to be increasingly important lately with all the hype about Lebron James declining to sign a letter condemning China for its role in the genocide in Darfur. The same thing happened to Michael Jordan when he refused to back a democratic African-American senate candidate. Michael Jordan paved the way for other athletes to remain apolitical and not publicly shares their views on controversial issues.
In my opinion, that is perfectly acceptable. Even though these two very powerful black, male athletes are sure to have a lot of influence, they shouldn't have to be subjected to using their influence over anyone. I think it's actually admirable that the athletes refused to back these issues because by doing that, whether it was the intended purpose or not, they would be persuading thousands of fans to have the same belief. People would certainly want to have the same views as their heroes and important issues should be decided on ones own. Everyone is capable of coming to their own conclusion without persuasion from Jordon or Lebron.
I think it is ridiculous for some people to assume that these athletes should have to take a stand on political issues simply because their good at basketball. It's a personal choice for them to voice their opinions and they should not be persuaded to use their position if they do not so choose. They sign a contract to play basketball, they sign contracts to endorse Nike and other sponsors, but they do not sign contracts that force them to back political figures and put their name to an issue.
I completely agree with you. These guys are basketball players who play basketball, they are not political figures who happen to be good at playing the sport of basketball. Another thing to think about is there is always two sides. These guys could go out there and say what they really believe, however they will always be wrong in someones mind. For example, if Lebron was for or against the Darfur issue, people will still be against him as they won't always have the same views. Now if Lebron did something that would influence his actions or participation on the basketball court, that would be something to discuss and worry about. This is just ridiculous.
ReplyDeleteI agree, I think it's ridiculous to try and have athletes that may not have all the information about a political issue say that they are behind it. It's their decision what they support and whether they express that to the public, just like for the rest of Americans. No one looks over your shoulder when you're voting so they shouldn't have to speak up. I think the media just tries to get them to do this so that they can convince weak minded people of what to support without giving other facts. When you mention a name like Lebron or Jordan some people are going to automatically feel the same as they do regardless of the issue, so I think it is socially responsible of them not to tell people their views on issues.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you as well. I think that celebrities today are usually way too eager to use their influence to back someone or something, even if they are not well-informed about the issue. I think that celebrities, especially athletes, should not be condemned for not jumping on a political bandwagon just because they are pressured to do so. I think that they have every right to turn down political opportunities, if that's what they feel is right.
ReplyDeleteI also strongly agree with your view. It is a choice of the athlete not a necessity because they happen to be a minority. They worked very hard to possibly be the best in their sport and make millions of dollars with multiple sponsors and any statement could cost them those endorsements. If the athlete really wanted to stand up for a political issue they would have probably gotten into politics in the first place instead of athletics. People should understand they are just like us they happen to be in the spotlight and if they feel strongly enough they will speak out. We are not asked to state our political opinions why should they be, it is their choice.
ReplyDeleteI agree I think it is tougher for them not to take a stand especially on issues they may believe in. I am sure there agents and other people around them tell them to take the high road on a lot of issues just to be politically correct and not offend anyone, but this would be extremely difficult if they did believe in something and were still told they could not voice there opinions on the basis they may effect how fans may look at them and sell a few less pairs of sneakers or such. It is the safe road and like Brandy mentioned also it may influence people not educated on an issue just to side with it because their favorite athlete is. It should be up to the athlete if he/she wants to back a political issue and I do not think any pressure should be put on them by anyone, after all this is America and they are free to decide how the like, whether you think it is the high road or the easy way it is still their decision.
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