Milwaukee Bucks' Meyers Leonard Jewish Community Center event after slur
MILWAUKEE - After an anti-Semitic slur almost cost him his career, a Milwaukee Bucks player opened up on his journey toward forgiveness.
The event Wednesday, June 14 at the Jewish Community Center was Meyers Leonard's idea.
A little more than two years ago, while rehabbing an injury, Leonard was live-streaming a video game when he yelled an anti-Semitic slur. The NBA fined him $50,000.
Meyers Leonard #3 of the Milwaukee Bucks runs down court during the second half of the game against the Indiana Pacers at Fiserv Forum on March 16, 2023, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images)
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The Miami Heat traded and released him, and he thought his career was over, but like he did on Wednesday night, Leonard connected with the Jewish community. He said they've accepted his apology and taught him so much about faith and himself.
Now, he's trying to use his experience for good.
At seven feet tall and 31 years old, you might think Leonard is done growing.
"The truth of this is meeting with people face to face is what means the most to me," he said. "That's when real learning and understanding happens."
Meyers Leonard #3 of the Milwaukee Bucks whom was signed to a 10 day contract works out before the game against the Miami Heat at Fiserv Forum on February 24, 2023, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images)
But the Bucks center said he's still growing as a person after one word almost cost him everything.
"Face the consequences of a big mistake, but go make it right," he said. "Go show people your heart, just as I always have."
Over the last two years, Leonard turned to the Jewish community, first apologizing and then connecting like he did Wednesday night.
"His opportunity is a chance to say about his experience, but to set an example for everybody," said Mark Shapiro, Jewish Community Center president & CEO. "We all make mistakes. It's what we do with them after they're done."
"It was a big mistake," said Leonard. "I own it. I'll continue to own it. I am dearly sorry, but I will not stop at anything to continually learn for myself but use my voice, my platform and everything I learned to speak out against hate."
Meyers Leonard #3 of the Milwaukee Bucks looks on against the Phoenix Suns in the second half at Fiserv Forum on February 26, 2023, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
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His message comes at a time when anti-Semitism is spiking, according to the Anti-Defamation League.