Luol Deng Takes High Road in Statement
Another controversy that has emerged this week is the Atlanta Hawks and their circulated comments of a controversial nature. The events that followed have seen the Atlanta Hawks owner move to sell the team before the NBA comes down on him. Also involved is Hawks GM and Duke alum Danny Ferry, who read some incendiary comments about fellow Duke alum Luol Deng from a report commissioned by the Hawks.
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The reports made comments that Deng “”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.” Ferry read these comments, presumably without clarification, at a meeting of front office types.
Deng is taking the high road, embracing his ‘African’ heritage. Deng is originally from the South Sudan, which was still engaged in a civil war with Sudan during his youth. Deng did not sign with the Atlanta Hawks, obviously, but is now with the Miami Heat. This is Deng’s statement to Ira Winderman of the South Florida Sun Sentinel:
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“HE HAS A LITTLE AFRICAN IN HIM”
“These words were recently used to describe me. It would ordinarily make any African parent proud to hear their child recognized for their heritage.
“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.”
Well handled Mr. Deng.
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