The 2016 ESPY awards, held on July, 13 2016 at the Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles, California, was undoubtedly one of the biggest nights in sports. The world of sports converged in one place for one night, as the worlds best athletes and people were honored for their achievements.
NBA stars Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul, Dwyane Wade, and LeBron James opened the 2016 ESPYs by openly acknowledging the recent police killings of black men and the attack on police officers in Dallas. As four of the world’s most recognizable athletes, they used this moment to address the need for systematic change, and made a call to action for other athletes to help rebuild and strengthen their communities.
“We can’t ignore the reality of the current state of America. The events of the past week have put a spotlight on the injustice, distrust, and anger that plaque so many of us. The system is broken. The problems are not new, the violence is not new, and the racial divide definitely is not new. But the urgency to create change is at an all time high.”
– Carmelo Anthony
Here Is the Full Video of the NBA Players Call to Action:
Video Source: YouTube, Rabit
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