LeBron James made a statement with his footwear during the season opener between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Boston Celtics.
The NBA superstar wore a pair of black Nike sneakers with the word “equality” emblazoned on the heels with gold stitching.
LeBron James has always been outspoken about President Trump and always shows support for NFL players choosing to take a knee during the national anthem to protest against inequality. He recently criticized the president for his ourage against protests in the NFL.
The NBA prohibits players from kneeling during the anthem, but LeBron James and his teammates locked arms in solidarity during the singing of the Star Spangled Banner.
James’s shoes show solidarity with NFL players who are protesting against police brutality and racial injustices happening around the country.
Although it was subtle, LeBron James’ message received plenty of reactions on social media. Many people were in support of James’ peaceful protest, while others were critical of him wearing the “equality sneakers.”
LeBron wearing sneakers tonight that say “EQUALITY” in big bold letters.
Appreciate him kicking the season off with a meaningful statement. pic.twitter.com/Yf3TmA3UBI
— Adam Best (@adamcbest) October 17, 2017
“Rise Above The Rhetoric”
America supports Equality, America supports Justice#Lebron Equality pic.twitter.com/j1SjKiUHr3— johnjwillard (@johnjwillard) October 18, 2017
Some were critical of the NBA super wearing the sneakers.
So multi-millionaire LeBron James wears gold-embroidered Nike “Equality” sneakers. Anyone see the irony in that?
— Bob Barr (@bobbarr) October 18, 2017
The Nike Basketball Twitter account retweeted a photo of LeBron James’ equality sneakers, but if you can remember, Nike also launched a campaign in February with the same name.
LeBron James Nike Equality campaign 2017
