Officers Walk Off WNBA Game After Players Wear Shirts Honoring Victims

During a WNBA Lynx game, four off-duty officers from the Minneapolis Police Department abandoned their security posts after seeing the players wearing pre-game shirts honoring victims of police shootings. The incident sparked controversy and raised questions about freedom of expression and the role of professional athletes in social activism.

The Shirts and Their Message

The black T-shirts worn by the players featured the names of two black men who had been shot by the police, including Philando Castile, who was killed during a traffic stop in Minnesota. The shirts also displayed a Dallas police badge as a tribute to the five Dallas officers who were killed while on duty. The words “Black Lives Matter” were printed on the back, conveying a message of advocacy for change and raising awareness about racial profiling and senseless violence.

“What is happening today is not new,” said Rebekkah Brunson, sharing a personal childhood encounter with police. “We have decided it is important to us to take a stand and raise our voices.”

The Officers’ Response

The four officers were offended by the shirts and requested that the team officials ask the players to remove them. When their request was denied, the officers walked off their posts. Lt. Bob Kroll, the president of the Minneapolis Police Federation, characterized the players’ protest as “anti-police” and accused them of embracing a “false narrative” regarding police misconduct. He expressed frustration on behalf of the officers, stating, “It’s just a T-shirt, but our officers have been frustrated.”

Reactions and Statements

Minneapolis Police Chief Janee’ Harteau acknowledged the officers’ frustrations but disapproved of their actions. She emphasized the importance of upholding the department’s core values and honoring the oath of office. Chief Harteau stated, “Walking off the job and failing to fulfill their contractual obligation does not align with the expectations the public has for the uniform they wear.”

Minneapolis Mayor Betsy Hodges criticized Lt. Bob Kroll’s remarks, asserting that he does not speak on behalf of the management. Mayor Hodges made it clear that she did not share his opinions regarding the Lynx or any other matter.

A Matter of Freedom of Expression

The incident highlights the ongoing debate surrounding freedom of expression and the intersection of sports and social activism. While some argue that professional athletes should stick to playing their respective sports, others maintain that they have a platform and a responsibility to speak out on important issues.

As the discussion continues, it is crucial to consider the diverse perspectives and foster constructive dialogue that can lead to greater understanding and positive change.

Note: we are republishing this story, which originally made the news in July 2016, amid record high levels of political division in America. According to Pew surveys, the US ranks among the highest in the world according to how many people feel more divided than before the pandemic. More on this here: https://www.latimes.com/politics/newsletter/2021-10-15/us-most-divided-nation-in-worldwide-survey-essential-politics