Mark Davis, owner of Las Vegas Raiders, defended the team’s social media post after facing backlash for using what seemed like a bad choice of words.
The Raiders tweeted “I Can Breathe” after ex-Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was found guilty of all three charges in George Floyd’s death in May 2020.
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According to The athleticDavis said the wording came from Floyd’s brother, Philonise, who said, “Today we can breathe again.”
“If I have offended the family, I am deeply, deeply disappointed,” Davis told The Atheltic.
Davis also said the message will not be removed.
Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, died on May 25, 2020, after Chauvin held his knee against his upper body for nine minutes and 29 seconds, while a handcuffed Floyd repeatedly said he couldn’t breathe. So the Raiders who used “I Can Breathe” seemed to have been taken out of context.
Here were some of the original responses to the tweet.
Other athletes and professional sports organizations expressed their views on the situation, including the NFL.
“Today’s outcome on the Derek Chauvin trail in Minneapolis does not make up for the loss of life. Mr. George Floyd should be here with us today,” the NFL said in a statement. “Our hearts stay with the Floyd family, and we understand that the pain, anger and frustration will not go away, even when justice is done.
SPORTS WORLD RESPONS TO DEREK CHAUVIN FOUND GUILTY OVER ALL COSTS IN GEORGE FLOYD DEATH
“Importantly, even as we identify reasons for hope, we must continue to help move our society into a more equitable and equitable future. We are proud to partner with NFL players and clubs and remain committed to it. to do important work that is necessary to bring about positive change in our society. “
Chauvin, 45, was charged with second degree accidental murder, third degree murder, and second degree manslaughter. With Americans on edge pending verdict, the jury announced it found him guilty across the board.
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His bail was immediately withdrawn and he was taken away with his hands handcuffed behind his back. Cheers and honking cars could be heard outside the Hennepin County courthouse while the verdict was read.
Chauvin’s sentencing is scheduled for eight weeks, the judge said. He can be sent to prison for decades.
Fox News’ Stephanie Pagones contributed to this report.