Lakers Legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Seems Off on America’s Reaction to Queen Elizabeth Passing Away: “I’m a Fan… I’m Not a Fan”

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar undoubtedly has a way with words. His contributions to society are immense, especially during the civil rights movement in the United States. Recently, he wrote a eulogy for Queen Elizabeth II. As everyone knows, she passed away recently after being the longest-serving monarch in British history for more than 70 years. Many generations have grown up with Queen Elizabeth II’s long rule. Hence, a man like Abdul-Jabbar was ideal for giving a fitting eulogy to the recently departed monarch.

He wrote that he will miss the Queen “puttering around with good cheer and enthusiasm“. He considered her an inspiration and said that he was a fan of the lady. But has also declared that he is not a fan of the institution of the monarchy itself.

“American fascination with the British royal family has always struck me as an odd, though slightly endearing, phenomenon,” the former Los Angeles Lakers legend said. He likened it to the “longing for the mildly abusive, disapproving parents that we left home to get away from their overbearing control”.

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He wrote that people, from a safe distance of time and space, get nostalgic about the royal glitz and glamour. Yet, according to Abdul-Jabbar, they are wealthy, overdressed brand ambassadors for Britain. He acknowledged that they indeed have a long history with the country but are also a representation of the horrors of imperialism and colonialism. Abdul-Jabbar said that the British not only wanted to drain their colonies economically but also impose their values.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was a trailblazer as a sporting social activist

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is known for being socially progressive and without his or Bill Russell’s contributions, life arguably wouldn’t be easier for Black players in the NBA today. He started playing basketball in high school as Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor Jr. but later changed his name in college after being inspired by Malcolm X’s autobiography which he read during his junior year of college.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has published several books on African American history. He has written three autobiographies and is a regular contributor to issues of race and religion.  The former player also once brought up the issue of compensation given to college athletes, stating, “In the name of fairness, we must bring an end to the indentured servitude of college athletes and start paying them what they are worth.“

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What do you think of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s views on this matter? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.