StandWithUs is disappointed to learn that yet another celebrity has been caught using a vulgar antisemitic slur. Miami Heat center Meyers Leonard’s use of the word “k-ke” in a derogatory manner toward another player in an online game is wholly unacceptable. The worst part may be that he didn’t appear to know that the term is deeply offensive when the word effortlessly flowed out during his gaming session, and he issued no retraction or apology after the fact. We are encouraged to hear that the Miami Heat is investigating the matter and hope that in addition to any other penalties that may be warranted here, Leonard will not only issue an apology to the Jewish community but also take the time to educate himself and others over whom he has influence about the harm that too often comes from the use of hateful and derogatory terms like this.
About StandWithUs
StandWithUs (SWU) is an international, non-profit and non-partisan Israel education organization that works to inspire and educate people of all ages about Israel, as well as challenge misinformation and fight against antisemitism.
Through university fellowships, high school internships, middle school curricula, conferences, materials, social media, educational films and missions to Israel, StandWithUs supports people around the world who want to educate their schools and communities about Israel.
Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Los Angeles, the organization has chapters and programs on 5 continents, including the U.S., Israel, UK, Canada, South Africa and Brazil.
For the last 7 years, SWU has consistently received the highest possible ratings from Charity Navigator (4 stars) and Guidestar (Platinum).
