Magic Johnson and White Patriarchy

According to CNN.com “[Magic] Johnson became an involuntary figure in the controversy after Sterling named him in the leaked recording”. Due to the issues surrounding race relations throughout American history the Donald Sterling recording expose is prevalent in American’s minds. Sterling’s interview on Tuesday night was shocking to many as proven online as thousands of individuals live tweeted during the interview. 

The dichotomy created between black athletes and white owners is there and millions of individuals tune in to watch NBA games during the season. Owners and endorsers gain millions from the athletic abilities of mostly Black players within the league.

The ability for Magic Johnson to have a platform to state his opinion on the recordings held historical context. Johnson’s interview with Anderson Cooper on AC 360 last night presented him as an individual who has the right to share his opinions with the world. "What's really sad is, it's not about me," Johnson said (CNN). This quote rectifies the notion that Johnson believes his words hold a deeper meaning and exposes Sterling’s bigoted feelings towards Blacks.

Sterling’s comments during his interview on AC 360 only pushed him deeper into the rabbit hole. His unwillingness to confront the issues head on and his ability to discredit Johnson’s notoriety in the Black community was seemingly problematic. “What kind of a guy goes to every city, has sex with every girl, then he catches HIV? Is that someone we want to respect and tell our kids about?” said Sterling according to CNN. In response Johnson said “My whole life is devoted to urban America. So, you know I just wish he knew the facts when he's talking,” (CNN).

The historical context that these issues perpetuate is the dichotomy between two wealthy individuals of different backgrounds. Johnson spoke about his impact in California communities which he has pumped his own money into. He also stated that Sterling’s comments about his HIV status perpetuate a stigma which exists.  

Johnson’s interview ultimately allowed him to express his opinions on the entire issue and to let Sterling know he was not going to be bullied. As a public figure he had a right to speak out about the problematic audio recordings released to the public.

According to CNN “after [Sterling’s] recorded racist remarks were revealed, the NBA began the process of forcing him to sell the franchise, which some experts have valued between $575 million and $1 billion” (CNN).

 As a Black man in America amidst the omnipresent hands of White male patriarchy he presented himself in a respectful manner. Johnson symbolizes that Black male public figures whom must speak out against wealthy White patriarchs. The millions of dollars which are made by Black athletes do not alleviate racism. The Black athletes are taken advantage of and used in a capitalistic manner to gain revenue for the 30 owners of the teams. The notion that Black athletes should indulge in their money and be silenced by the executives of the team is problematic. It is seemingly an exploitative monopoly which is a vicious cycle.