Billboards slamming LeBron James on his China silence rejected by US sign company: Report

An American sign company reportedly made decision to reject advertising that mocked LeBron James’ refusal to speak out against China's human rights abuse. Lakers superstar has come under microscope because of his public stance on Black Lives Matter campaign and US social justice causes while remaining silent on situation in China. A number of LeBron James billboards were set to be displayed near entrance of  NBA bubble in Orlando where James’ LA Lakers are battling  Miami Heat for NBA championship.

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US sign company refuses to hoard LeBron James billboards mocking Lakers star over silence on China situation

According to reports from New York Post, National Legal and Policy Center (NLPC) in Virginia wanted to post five ims showing LeBron James with a Chinese flag covering his mouth along with mess, “Silence is Violence.”  NLPC is a conservative NGO that reportedly monitors ethics of public officials as well as basketball players. report claims that NLPC was prepared to splash “several hundred thousand dollars” on billboards which would mock three-time NBA champion.

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However, Outfront Media opted against putting up advertisements for fear of upsetting famously outspoken LeBron James. "We can put up advert if y remove James' im," said a representative from Outfront. Although LeBron James has been vocal about rampant racism and police brutality in US he came under heavy scrutiny for his comments on China's human rights issues. James has a lifetime contract with Nike, whose Chinese-made products in his name have raked in hundreds of millions of dollars. 

 NLPC claimed that James has been silent over  Chinese “slave labour” that makes his Nike sneakers, which are sold for around $200 a pair. NLPC Chairman Peter Flaherty also explained his decision to use billboards with LeBron James as he said, "Some messs are far too important to be suppressed, we should be able to call out LeBron for his hypocrisy."

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NBA China issue: LeBron James on China Human rights abuse

re has been an increased focus on NBA and China's relationship since Houston Rockets GM Daryl Morey tweeted in support of Hong Kong’s anti-government protests last year in October. LeBron James also made a comment later, saying: "I don’t want to get into a feud with Daryl Morey, but I believe he (Morey) hasn't been educated on situation." comments made by James sparked outr from protestors in Hong Kong but were praised by Chinese Communist officials. 

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Im Credits - AP