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Be Like Mike?: The Black Athlete’s Dilemma

Modern Black athletes have a dilemma: to be or not to be . . . like Mike? Michael Jordan’s athletic and financial success are exceptional. However, his apathy toward sociopolitical issues is troubling for individuals who judge today’s Black athletes on standards set by athletes during the Civil Rights movement. This essay explores this dilemma by (1) critiquing Jordan’s historical significance within the Black community, (2) comparing four prominent Black athletes following in Jordan’s footsteps as iconic figures, and (3) challenging the opinion that Black athletes have to express concern over issues that resonate with the majority of Blacks to maintain acceptance within the Black community. Two athletes in this study have chosen the benefits of mainstream acceptance over an active role in social justice. However, others prove that today’s Black athletes no longer have to choose one over the other.