Michael Jordan Supports Peaceful Protest After Trump Tweets

Michael Jordan says he supports peaceful protest in the wake of President Trump's tweets about Steph Curry and the NFL.

Michael Jordan in a suit in front of a blue sky
Jordan Brand

Image via Jordan Brand

Michael Jordan in a suit in front of a blue sky

How does the greatest basketball player of all time feel about President Trump's back and forth with Steph Curry regarding the Golden State Warriors' canceled trip to the White House? He weighed in on the matter this weekend, expressing support for athlete protests.

"One of the fundamental rights this country is founded on was freedom of speech, and we have a long tradition of nonviolent, peaceful protest," Jordan told the Charlotte Observer. "Those who exercise the right to peacefully express themselves should not be demonized or ostracized."

President Trump "uninvited" Curry to the White House via Twitter on Sept. 23 after the two-time MVP suggested he wasn't interested in visiting the highest office in the land through the pilgrimage there typically made by championship teams.

Going to the White House is considered a great honor for a championship team.Stephen Curry is hesitating,therefore invitation is withdrawn!

With his response, Jordan joined a chorus of athletes both active and retired criticizing Trump's comment. Particularly resonant was LeBron James, who called the commander-in-chief a "bum" on social media.

U bum @StephenCurry30 already said he ain't going! So therefore ain't no invite. Going to White House was a great honor until you showed up!

In his comment to the Observer, Jordan said that he supports NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, the league, and players exercising their right to free speech.

“At a time of increasing divisiveness and hate in this country, we should be looking for ways to work together and support each other and not create more division," Jordan said.