Meyers Leonard gives detailed reason for standing during National Anthem

Meyers Leonard gives detailed reason for standing during National Anthem.

Miami Heat’s Meyers Leonard didn’t kneel for the National Anthem with his teammates on Saturday and received criticism for his action. Now, just hours later he’s taken to Twitter to share a collection of images and his thoughts in regards to his controversial choice.

Many players across various sports have chosen to kneel to honor the Black Lives Matter movement. Leonard says he believes and supports in that movement but does not believe he needs to kneel to show where his loyalties are.

Read Meyers Leonard’s full statement here.

"Today, I listened to my heart. I felt an overwhelming amount of emotion as I stood there during the National Anthem. My brother, and many close friends have sworn to protect this country at all costs, and that means something to me, as does the flag and our nation.The Black Lives Matter movement also means a hell of a lot to me. What has been and continues to go on in our country is inexcusable and flat out wrong. I will continue to use my voice, my platform and my family’s resources to commit to helping make a change.I’m incredibly thankful for the love and support from my teammates, the Miami Heat organization, my family, and friends who know me. They know my heart and where I stand. I’ll leave you with this – it’s OKAY to be BOTH. I can stand proud in my beliefs and also support BLM."

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