LeBron James says Trump has given racists an opportunity to speak without fear

The “stick to sports” crowd is not going to like what LeBron James had to say on Martin Luther King Jr. day in regard to racism and the opportunity the president has afforded them.

LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers have a big matchup with Kevin Durant, Steph Curry and the reigning NBA champion, Golden State Warriors tonight. However, the focus of the day from LeBron wasn’t about how the Cavs would try to slow down the Warriors or how the Cavs can get out of this funk they’re in, rather, he’s focused on uniting the greatest country in the world that’s been divided by a president that’s intent on giving racists an opportunity to spread their racism.

This message is important every day, but especially so on Martin Luther King Jr. when a nation remembers his work as a civil rights activist and what he tried to accomplish before his life was cut short by a cowardly assassin.

LeBron spoke about the legacy of Dr. King and the challenges facing the country because of the leader of the country. This is not the first time LeBron had been critical of President Trump, and it likely will not be the last, but his words are important to hear as he speaks about a divided nation.

"“For us to stand here, even though we’re trying to be divided right now by somebody, today is a great day for people to realize how America was built and how we all have to stand united in order to be at one, especially as Americans because we all know and we all believe this is the greatest country in the world,” James said, via wkyc.com. “We are in a difficult state right now as Americans as well with the leader of our country, but no matter the religion, no matter the shapes or size, we all have to continue to come together and shine a brighter light on, I hate to use the word stupidity, but that’s basically what it comes down to.”"

When political affairs and current events are mentioned by a sports figure, they are immediately dismissed by people who think they need to “stick to sports” but I hope LeBron’s message of unity can bring people together.

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It’s a dangerous time for many Americans who don’t feel safe because of the person in the Oval Office. As LeBron puts it, he can’t let the overt racism that has been allowed to prosper and have a voice because of Trump continue any longer.

"“The state of racism will never die, but what we cannot do is allow it to conquer us,” James said. “As people, we cannot allow it to divide us. The guy in control has given people and negative racism an opportunity to be outspoken without fear, and that’s the fearful thing for us, because it’s with you and it’s around everyday.”"

This comes days after Trump was criticized again for his comments in regard to Haitian and African immigrants who flee “s***hole” countries. This wasn’t the first time Trump has been accused of being a racist, having racist policies or discriminatory behavior toward people of color. It was just the latest example, and thankfully, players like LeBron James who has a global appeal of their own can use his voice to be a positive influence. To inspire positive change. To inspire a nation that can be united by love rather than divided by hate.