Mar 10, 2021

JCRC Denounces Heat Player’s anti-Semitic Slur

The Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation condemns the anti-Semitic slur used by Miami Heat player Meyers Leonard while livestreaming a videogame. We welcome the swift denunciation by both the Heat and the NBA, and are grateful that the Heat, by firmly stating the organization’s zero tolerance of hateful language, sent a clear message to the South Florida Jewish community and to basketball fans everywhere that there is no justification for anti-Semitism and bigotry.

Additionally, JCRC acknowledges Mr. Leonard’s apology and appreciates his contrition and ownership of his hurtful actions. Ignorance is never an excuse for hate or intolerance, but we hope this becomes a teachable moment. We have reached out to the Heat to offer Mr. Leonard opportunities to learn more about the Jewish people and the inevitably harmful impact of anti-Semitism and bigotry in all forms. Assuming Mr. Leonard’s remorse is sincere, we are eager to connect with him to begin the healing process.