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Raiders owner Mark Davis has not shrunk in the face of criticism on social media over his team’s tweet following Derek Chauvin’s conviction in all respects in connection with the murder of George Floyd. Floyd’s family expressed gratitude, not condemnation, for the message Davis sent.
“On behalf of our family, I would like to thank the Las Vegas Raiders Organization and its leadership for their support of our family and for our country’s continued pursuit of justice and equality for all,” said Floyd’s brother Philonise. Floyd, said, via the Associated Press. “Now, more than ever before, we must come together as one and continue this struggle. Our family breathed a sigh of relief for the first time in almost a year. And I know it applies to so many people across the country and the world. Let’s breathe together in honor of my big brother who could not. Let’s do it for George. ”
After the tweet, Davis let out a shout that he was meant to reflect the sentiment of the Floyd family.
“It was taken negatively by 99% of the people,” Davis said via the AP. ‘It happens. It’s part of social media. ”
It is indeed. No matter what anyone says on any topic, someone on social media will be ready to jump in. In his honor, Davis held on to his belief that the message from him and the team – I can breathe – was to respect the moment of justice for a man whose plea to Chauvin, “I can not breathe,” was ignored.
This is the deeper message of Davis and the Raiders. It’s important to ignore the noise of the millions that a megaphone that resounds for a moment but that ultimately means nothing. Davis said what he meant, meant what he said, and the Floyd family appreciated it. If anyone else has a problem with it, it’s their problem.