Kyrie Irving, star of the Boston Celtics, caught backlash after sharing his thoughts on the Thanksgiving holiday.
After the Celtics’ loss to the New York Knicks on Thanksgiving Eve, Irving left a press conference and a reporter wished him a happy Thanksgiving.
Irving said “thanks” to the reporter but revealed that he does not celebrate Thanksgiving. He ended the conversation by telling the reporter, “F—k Thanksgiving.”
Irving could possibly have issues with Thanksgiving because of his family’s heritage. His grandmother was a member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, and his late mother, Elizabeth Irving, was adopted out of the tribe when she was a child.
Irving has the Standing Rock Sioux Tribal logo on the back of his neck and went through a naming ceremony with the tribe along with his sister.
Following Irving’s statement, he was ridiculed by some on social media.
You should be ashamed of yourself. Disgraceful. What an excuse about your Native American heritage. Everyone in this country could come up with some heritage excuse. Ungrateful. You should be proud and welcome our Thanksgiving tradition and blessings. SHAME
— Julian Crawford (@manageforprofit) November 23, 2018
Irving eventually apologized for his statement on Twitter.
“I spoke with frustration after last night’s game and spoke words that shouldn’t be in a professional setting no matter what,” Irving wrote on his Twitter account. “Meant no disrespect to the Holiday and those who celebrate it respectfully. I’m grateful for the time We all can share with our families. We are always ONE. (sic)”
While initially catching flack, Irving also received some support.
In 1637, in the new state called Massachusetts, the first official day of “thanksgiving” was established. On that same day, 600 Pequot men, women and children were killed in the name of Christianity. I am a descendant of those slaughtered. #facts #respect2kyrie
— Da Bear (@DaBear84735251) November 23, 2018
I hate @KyrieIrving apologized for saying “F**k thanksgiving”
I’m happy we use it as an excuse to be with our family and loved ones
BUT they stole land
Raped women
And all types of other F’d up stuff and our goofy selves celebrate with no clue!
🤦🏽♀️Own that statement Kyrie!
— Jonica Booth (@Blu1x) November 23, 2018
