Luol Deng released a statement in regard to Atlanta Hawks GM Danny Ferry’s racist statement.
During a company conference call, Ferry discussed Deng and said, “He has a little African in him. Not in a bad way, but he’s like a guy who would have a nice store out front but sell you counterfeit stuff out of the back.” He was basically calling Africans two-faced liars and cheats.
The Atlanta Hawks have said they have punished Ferry, but they have yet to release details of his punishment. Ferry also said that he will not resign. However, the damage done to the organization may be too severe for the team to retain Ferry.
NBA legend Magic Johnson was one of the first prominent athletes to speak out against Ferry. Johnson tweeted, “Atlanta Hawks GM Danny Ferry should step down after making racist statements about NBA player Luol Deng. The city of Atlanta and the Hawks fans deserve and should demand better from the Hawks leadership.”
Deng was indeed hurt by Ferry’s racist remarks and revealed his thoughts in the statement below:
“I’m proud to say I actually have a lot of African in me, not just ‘a little.’ For my entire life, my identity has been a source of pride and strength. Among my family and friends, in my country of South Sudan and across the broader continent of Africa, I can think of no greater privilege than to do what I love for a living while also representing my heritage on the highest stage. Unfortunately, the comment about my heritage was not made with the same respect and appreciation.
“Concerning my free agency, the focus should purely have been on my professionalism and my ability as an athlete. Every person should have the right to be treated with respect and evaluated as an individual, rather than be reduced to a stereotype. I am saddened and disappointed that this way of thinking still exists today. I am even more disturbed that it was shared so freely in a business setting.
“However, there is comfort in knowing that there are people who aren’t comfortable with it and have the courage to speak up. In the same way a generalization should not define a group of people, the attitude of a few should not define a whole organization or league.
“Ultimately, I’m thankful to be with an organization that appreciates me for who I am and has gone out of its way to make me feel welcome.”
