Meyers Leonard spews anti-Semitic slur in Call of Duty online play, regular day of racism in the CoD world
Warning: Content contains full spelling of anti-Semitic slur. If you are easily offended or if the visual of the full word causes emotional distress, we genuinely advise you to stop reading.
Racism Score: 4.7
Call of Duty (CoD) is a popular game that has sold over 300 million units and earned over $3 billion in 2020 alone.
Gamers love the game because of the fast-paced, easy, yet competitive game play. Professional sports players love getting in on the action which may be a way to decompress and get away from the grind of being a professional athlete.
However, what the game God’s giveth, the game God’s taketh away, as Miami Heat basketball player, Meyers Leonard just learned.
During an “intense” battle of CoD, Leonard seemed to be frustrated with a sniper’s assassination attempt. Instead of showing regular gamer frustration or using acceptable expletives, Leonard chose anti-Semitism.
“…you kike bitch.”
Whoa nelly! Not only is uttering the word despicable, but he also paused first! He had to time to think about it and he confidently proceeded anyway.
Quick look at the swift consequences.
- Suspended from the Miami Heat for a week and fined $50,000
- Dropped by sponsors
- Currently in social exile
Now, if you have played online games before, this type of language does not surprise you. The vial racist language losers in their mother’s basement people spew because they are protected by virtual anonymity is pervasive. There is no excuse for this type of rhetoric.
Leonard issued an apology.
To claim he “didn’t know what the word meant at the time” is completely asinine, and it is insulting to people’s intelligence.
The public vitriol expressed towards Leonard is justifiably palpable. Michael Rapaport shared his feelings on the matter.
We agree with Rapaport, Leonard needs to issue a video apology.
New England Patriots wide receiver, Julian Edelman issued an open Leonard regarding the matter.
Emotions run high during abhorrent situations and emotions will dictate whether people take the Julian Edelman approach, or the Michael Rapport approach. Forgiveness or scorn.
Either way, Leonard needs to atone for his actions. We would not be surprised if he tweets a picture of him visiting the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington D.C. when it opens back up (temporarily closed due to Covid-19).
We encourage everyone to visit the museum if you have an opportunity.
