Portside

Season of showdowns

Conservatives are obsessed with a patriotism litmus test rigged against Black Americans.

Russia’s jailing of the basketball star is an injustice that requires an international response.

When Toni Smith-Thompson turned away from the flag in 2003, the act was widely derided – a far cry from how similar gestures by NBA and WNBA players are received today.

Professional athletes have provided a flicker of hope during these agonizing days by speaking out against police violence. "Shut up and play" clearly doesn't fly when black bodies are falling at the hands of those whose job is to serve and protect. Now, after the filmed deaths of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile, athletes' statements - which have the potential to reach an audience far beyond the normal political blather - are starting up yet again.