A statement issued by the NBA on Thursday put into question Charlotte’s status as a host for the 2017 All-Star Game, following North Carolina passing one of the nation’s most anti-LGBTQ laws on Wednesday. The statement is as follows:
NBA implies 2017 All-Star Game could be moved after North Carolina passes anti-LGBTQ law
The game was awarded to Charlotte last June but its status is now in jeopardy.
Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
“The NBA is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all who attend our games and events. We are deeply concerned that this discriminatory law runs counter to our guiding principles of equality and mutual respect and do not yet know what impact it will have on our ability to successfully host the 2017 All-Star Game in Charlotte.”
The NBA awarded the 2017 All-Star Game to Charlotte last June, but it now seems possible they could take it away in the wake of North Carolina’s new law, which was passed within a 24-hour period. The state law bans local cities from passing anti-discrimination laws that protect LGBTQ people. You can read more here.
Notably, the state law was prompted by and revoked a local anti-discrimination law passed in the city of Charlotte -- the home of the Hornets and where the game would be hosted. However, given the NBA's statement, that may not be enough.
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