naomi osaka has also withdrawn from her upcoming semi-final at the western & southern open to join in the protests.
Dave Zirin: By exercising their power as workers, the players are inspiring an incredibly dormant part of the resistance to racism and Trumpism: the labor movement. If the NBA can shut down in protest of racist police violence, why not other industries? Why not cities? Why not entire sectors of the country’s economy? Strikes do not have to be about wages and benefits. There is a long, hidden history in this country of striking for human rights—“not just bread but roses.” It’s a history the players could help revive.
By striking, the players in the NBA, MLB, and beyond have brought their bosses to the table and launched a national conversation. More here.