Outrage and disappointment spread yesterday after it was announced the grand jury decided the two Cleveland officers will not face charges for killing 12-year old Tamir Rice. Activists are looking for the best way to keep their fight alive and are now turning to Ohio’s biggest star, LeBron James.
LeBron James previously donned a black hoodie in support of Trayvon Martin and wore a “I Can’t Breathe” shirt in support of Eric Garner. Now activists are asking James to go a step further.
Using the hashtag #NoJusticeNoLebron, activists, led by writer Tariq Touré, have unleashed a Twitter campaign asking the NBA superstar to put his season on hold until the Department of Justice — which is investigating the fatal November 2014 shooting — “imprisons the murderers of Tamir Rice.”
Activists are hoping to have similar success as the University of Missouri who were able to oust President Tim Wolfe with the aid of the football team refusing to play.
When Cleveland police officer Michael Brelo was found not guilty of voluntary manslaughter after his, and his colleagues’, actions resulted in the deaths of Timothy Russell and Malissa Williams following a high speed chase, LeBron James spoke on how sports could help the city.
“Something that’s going through a city that’s very dramatic, traumatizing or any of that case, I think sports is one of the biggest healers in helping a city out,” James said.
“I know my position, I know my power, I know my responsibility,” James said. “I take it very seriously. So whatever ways I’m able to affect anyone’s lives for the greater good, I’m blessed and I’m happy I’m able to do that, and I don’t take it for granted.”
Well now the city is calling upon him to fulfill that statement.
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