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USA Today via Reuters

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USA Today via Reuters

LeBron James once posted a powerful message on social media on the 4th of July to underline a different perspective on the American Declaration of Independence. He has been one of the most vocal players in the NBA on topics of social and racial inequality. In fact, LeBron James quoted the words of famous American abolitionist Frederick Douglass to highlight the African-American viewpoint on Independence Day.

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The NBA legend also included a clip of one of Douglass’ most famous speeches read on stage in front of a live audience by the actor James Earl Jones. In other words, King James has brilliantly utilized his influence as a public figure to fight injustice in the country. His social activism reached its peak in 2020, when a series of tragic instances of police brutality shook America.

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LeBron James quotes Frederick Douglass’ powerful speech on social media

LeBron James has efficiently utilized his massive social media following to spread awareness on social causes. In 2020, King James remained pretty vocal on different platforms to point out the instances of injustice still occurring throughout the country.

On the 4th of July 2020, he posted a powerful message on Twitter regarding the Declaration of Independence in America. In fact, the Lakers legend included a verbatim recital of American social reformer Frederick Douglass’ famous ‘What to the Slave is 4th of July?’ speech, delivered in Rochester, New York on July 5, 1852.

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James quoted Douglass’ words in the caption, “This 4th of July is Yours, Not Mine“. He also included hashtags like ‘StayWoke’ and ‘Powerful’ in the caption. The 4-time NBA champion wanted to deliver a message that resonated with marginalized communities in the country.

Read More: LeBron James Destroyed by NBA World for Refusing to High Five Excited Kid: “What’s Funny About Bad Sportsmanship?”

Frederick Douglass was born into slavery in 1818. Later on, he escaped slavery in Maryland and became a key leader in the abolitionist movement. In fact, he induced social reform in America through his writings and speeches.

LeBron as an activist

LeBron James continues to be a vital voice in society against discrimination. The 4-times NBA MVP has used his staggering wealth to influence change in impoverished communities.

Moreover, he has trail-blazed a path for athletes and players to speak their minds freely. In fact, many players have felt encouraged to speak up on issues following his lead.

Watch This Story: Debunking Rumors on LeBron James Girlfriends: Sofia Jamora, Meagan Good and Other Stars Who Were Allegedly Involved With The King

What do you think of LeBron’s post? Comment your thoughts below.

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Satagni Sikder

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Satagni Sikder is the primary editor of the NBA division at EssentiallySports. Formerly a sportswriter for ES, Satagni has penned over 350 articles for the website. He holds a Master’s degree in English from Jadavpur University, Kolkata. Since childhood, he has been attracted by the tactile aspect of language, how some words seem more appealing than others. And how the arrangement of words can create beautiful things. Later on, he became more interested in the faculty of language to translate ideas and its deep-rooted connection with power. In his spare time, Satagni likes to study speeches and monologues of influential people, from Machiavelli to Dave Chappelle. He has extensive experience in ghostwriting and freelance content creation. Satagni is also a fan of online political debates.

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Arunaditya Aima

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