Google News Kyrie Irving apologizes after being handed suspension for antisemitic movie promotion
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Kyrie Irving has finally issued an apology to the Jewish community, admitting that he was wrong in promoting a movie full of antisemitic material. After Irving promoted a movie full of antisemitic material, the Brooklyn Nets refused to suspend him immediately as they gave him a chance to admit he was wrong and take action to show that he was against antisemitic.
During a press conference this week, Irving refused to apologize and the Nets responded by announcing a suspension for Irving on Thursday. After the Nets announced a suspension on Irving and the Anti-Defamation League refused to take Irving's $500,000 donation, the star guard finally said directly he was sorry for his post.
"To All Jewish families and Communities that are hurt and affected from my post, I am deeply sorry to have caused you pain, and I apologize. I initially reacted out of emotion to being unjustly labeled Anti-Semitic, instead of focusing on the healing process of my Jewish Brothers and Sisters that were hurt from the hateful remarks made in the Documentary.
I want to clarify any confusion on where I stand fighting against Anti- semticism by apologizing for posting the documentary without context and a factual explanation outlining the specific beliefs in the Documentary I agreed with and disagreed with.
I had no intentions to disrespect any Jewish cultural history regarding the Holocaust or perpetuate any hate. I am learning from this unfortunate event and hope we can find understanding between us all," Irving wrote on Instagram.
The Nets suspended Irving
After Irving refused to initially admit that he was wrong and to release a sincere apology, the Nets handed the star guard a suspension.
The suspension will not be fewer than five games. "We were dismayed today, when given an opportunity in a media session, that Kyrie refused to unequivocally say he has no antisemitic beliefs, nor acknowledge specific hateful material in the film.
This was not the first time he had the opportunity -- but failed -- to clarify. Such failure to disavow antisemitism when given a clear opportunity to do so is deeply disturbing, is against the values of our organization, and constitutes conduct detrimental to the team.
Accordingly, we are of the view that he is currently unfit to be associated with the Brooklyn Nets," the Nets said in a statement. It remains to be seen when will Irving rejoin the Nets.
