Court Of Public Opinion

Fans Split In Support Of Suns' Jersey Decision

The debate over a new immigration law in Arizona officially enters the sports world as the Suns don Hispanic-themed jerseys last night during their playoff game against the Spurs. Suns Owner Robert Sarver’s decision to take a stance on the divisive issue draws protesters to the game and renewed calls that sports teams should not weigh in on political issues. However, the SACRAMENTO BEE’s Ailene Voisin describes the rare form of social activism among pro franchises as an “immensely powerful form of nonviolent protest.” Meanwhile, MLB is under increased scrutiny to issue a statement on the law as more groups are ratcheting up pressure on the league to move the ’11 All-Star Game out of Phoenix. Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer writes taking away the Midsummer Classic from Chase Field and the D’Backs is the “wrong play,” as boycotts “backfire and harm innocent people.” However, with politicians calling on teams to move their Spring Training out of the state, it seems Bud Selig will have to face the issue sooner than later.