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Published 16:39 IST, June 3rd 2020

Knicks owner James Dolan 'vehemently' condemns racism in memo to MSG employees

Knicks owner James Dolan condemned racism in a second memo to MSG employees. The controversial Knicks owner was criticised for his comments about racism.

Reported by: Daniel Arambur
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It's been a season to forget for the New York Knicks and their massive supporters' group. The Knicks are currently 12th in the Western Conference and are unlikely to make the cut for the playoffs this year. However, things took a turn for the worse for Knicks fans earlier this week after controversial Knicks owner James Dolan sent out a mixed memo to Madison Square Garden employees and players in relation to the ongoing civil unrest and protests regarding the death of George Floyd.

James Dolan was quoted in the memo as saying, "As companies in the business of sports and entertainment, however, we are not any more qualified than anyone else to offer our opinion on social matters." According to reports, Knicks players and other staff were furious over Dolan's response to the ongoing issues in the United States which forced the franchise owner to draft a second memo to MSG employees on Tuesday clarifying his stance on the issue.

Also Read | Knicks statement: Players reportedly unhappy with organization's silence over George Floyd's death

Knicks statement on George Floyd protest

James Dolan statement from earlier this week

Also Read | George Floyd protests: LeBron James shares video of peaceful protest in Colorado in light of George Floyd killing

Knicks statement 

James Dolan statement: James Dolan condemns racism

After receiving loads of criticism for his vague comments on the ongoing civil unrest in the country regarding systemic racism and police brutality, James Dolan sent a second memo to MSG employees on Tuesday. According to reports, the new James Dolan statement read, “Yesterday, I made a sincere attempt to provide my perspective on a very difficult issue, one that has no easy answers. I know how important this topic is to so many, and I do not want there to be any confusion about where I am as an individual, or we as a company stand. So let me be clear: we vehemently condemn and reject racism against anyone, period.” It has been reported that Dolan is a staunch Donald Trump supporter and even made a $500,000 contribution to his presidential campaign.

Knicks statement 

James Dolan statement: James Dolan condemns racism as protests erupt

In his new memo to MSG employees, Knicks owner James Dolan condemned all forms of racism that are prevalent in American society. The James Dolan statement further added that his company does not support and will not tolerate any form of racism within the organisation. This new statement came as a response to severe backlash from the first James Dolan statement which was sent out to MSG employees on Monday.

Also Read | George Floyd protests: How NBA stars raised their voice against racial injustice

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NBA stars protest the tragic loss of George Floyd across various platforms

Also Read | Knicks interested in hiring former Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau as next HC: Report

Updated 16:39 IST, June 3rd 2020

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