NBA approves social justice messages for jerseys after game resumes: report

The NBA and the National Basketball Players Association have pre-approved a list of social justice messages that can be worn on the back of uniforms when the league resumes its season later this month in Orlando, according to a report released Friday.

The messages will be displayed in place of their last names during the first four days of the NBA restart, ESPN’s The Undefeated reported, citing sources familiar with the matter. Players who choose to participate in the program can submit their first two choices.

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Approved phrases include “Black Lives Matter; Say their names; Vote; I can not breathe; Justice; Peace; Equality; Freedom; Enough; Power for the people; Justice now; Say his name; Si Se Puede (Yes We Can); Release; See us; Hear us; Respect us; Love us; Listen; Hear us; Hold on; Ally; Anti-racist; I am a man; Speak; How many others; Group economy; Educational reform; and mentor “, According to ESPN.

After the first four days, players can continue to post messages on their jerseys next to their last names. The restart of the season should start on July 30 with a format of 22 teams.

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The NBA and union officials have been negotiating for weeks on the best way to highlight the causes of social justice amid national protests against racial injustice after the death of George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis.

Several NBA players have expressed concern that the restart of the season will distract attention from larger issues. NBA players had until June 24 to “opt out” of the restart plan without risk of fines or other disciplinary action.

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The NBA closed in mid-March due to the coronavirus pandemic. The game will resume in a “bubble” environment at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.

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