With riots in Ferguson and controversy lingering over other cases, racial tensions are at an all-time high. Even sports are a battleground for racial tensions, racism and bigotry.
Earlier this year, Donald Sterling earned a lifetime ban from the NBA because of his racist comments. Institutionalized racism, preconceived racism and general confusion among the masses of people are at an all-time high. Everyone has their own opinion on growing tensions.
Some people look for racial reform and equality. Others deny that any reforms need to be made. Opportunists fan the fire, looking for what benefits them personally. Likewise, Levenson’s decision to self-report his email and sell his stake in the Hawks will be viewed differently among the masses.
Whatever personal beliefs a person may conclude about Levenson and his choices, it is clear that people need sports more now than ever. As tensions flare on, sports unite people regardless of skin color, religion, gender or sexuality in the passion for the game. People connect as a collective body to cheer, celebrate and applaud their teams and the love of sports.
Despite what Levenson said in his email, people’s love for the game strikes deeper than fear, hate or persecution. People united, and looking to the future, people should remember that feeling. In the end, we’re all human.
