In class last thursday we watched a film about how players can make an impact on any important matter that affects our world today such as gay and lesbian playing sports or racial matters. Back in the 1960's Muhammad Ali was at the top of the boxing world during a time when the Civil Rights Movement was at its peak. Instead of standing by and not saying a word because you might hurt someones feeling Ali stood up for what he believed in and never backed down. However in todays world Lebron James and Michael Jordan had a chance to be like Ali but were to afraid they would step on people's toes and there would be backlash. In an interview Lebron James said he would hope to become like Muhammad Ali, he wants to be the richest and most powerful athlete in the world. However Muhammad Ali of course made himself made in the boxing arena but also in the Civil Rights arena. We remember Muhammad Ali for what he did for the African American people. Lebron James and Michael Jordan still have a long ways away to becoming like Muhammad Ali.
Mallori T.
Kin332I, S3200
1 comment:
I was very intrigued by this video also. Although Muhammad Ali did so much for the Civil Rights movement he’s known greatly for his athletic ability as a boxer. Rarely do you hear how involved he was in the movement for Civil Rights and how much he sacrificed in his career to be part of this movement. It’s very admirable and heroic. This is a quality that kids should look up to. But then there are those athletes like Labron and Jordan. They are great athletes and many, so many, people look up to them for their accomplishments in sports. BUT, what have they done for society and change. In the video, Not Just a Game, Dave Zirin pointed out how much Jordan has become a brand. He is much into the commercialization of himself and his products. And we are beginning to see this with Labron. If Labron wants to be like Muhammad, he has to grow up and learn that money is not everything. If he wants to make an impact in society he can’t be afraid to jeopardize his career and name.
Ann Marie Evidente
Kin 332I
Tu/Th 12:30pm
Post a Comment