The NBA strike is the most effective RNC counterprogramming possible

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From https://theweek.com/speedreads/933969/nba-strike-most-effective-rnc-counterprogramming-possible

The NBA strike is the most effective RNC counterprogramming possible

August 26, 2020
Joel Mathis

The Milwaukee Bucks' boycott of an NBA playoff game — to protest the police shooting of Jacob Blake in Wisconsin — is a historic moment in American culture, instantly taking its place alongside such acts of conscience as Tommie Smith and John Carlos raising their fists in a "Black Power" salute at the 1968 Olympics, or Muhammad Ali's refusal to be inducted into the armed forces during the Vietnam War.

But the boycott also takes place on the third night of the Republican National Convention — which is expected to feature "law and order" themes in support of America's police officers in the midst of Black Lives Matter protests.

Michael McHale, president of the National Association of Police Organizations, is one of the featured speakers. His group endorsed President Trump last month, citing Trump's support "during this time of unfair and inaccurate opprobrium being directed at our members by so many." Another speaker: Vice President Mike Pence, who once attended an NFL game for the express purpose of leaving when players kneeled during the national anthem to protest police violence.

Those speeches might look very different in light of the Bucks boycott, which was quickly joined by the other five NBA teams scheduled to play Wednesday and looks likely to spread even further. (The Milwaukee Brewers, Wisconsin's MLB team, also decided not to play, a decision that was supported by their opponents, the Cincinnati Reds.)

[...]

[SallyHemmings]

1. It is critical for the media to ask the right questions

In no way do I condone trashing property. It lends itself for a comfortable narrative.

The question should always be why a young white man who slaughters black people in the sanctuary of a church is treated to a burger after being arrested versus the cruel over policing of black people?

Why are armed white men who threatened a Democratic Governor treated differently than peaceful protesters?

Why does the ability to use training to de escalate a situation kick in so easily when the situation doesn’t involve a person of color?

Justice for whom?


The answers to these questions are as American as those who wrapped themselves in a flag when their sensibilities are shaken.