There was some serious tensions in the CrossFit world when CEO and founder Greg Glassman said some insensitive things. Now he is walking back these comments, and apologizing for what he said.
Glassman came under fire after he sent a rather poorly timed tweet in response to the current social climate in the United States. Seemingly the entire CrossFit community spoke out against him comments, with some even refusing to compete at the CrossFit Games because of it. Not only that, but several affiliate gyms announced that they would be ending their affiliation, and Reebok official confirmed that they will no longer be pursuing a new endorsement deal with the organization.
Following this negative response, Greg Glassman has decided to issue a statement. Using the official CrossFit Twitter account, he gave a lengthy statement, apologizing for his comments. Moreover he reiterated that he did not intend for his comments to be taken in a racist way, and wished for the community’s forgiveness.
“I, CrossFit HQ, and the CrossFit community will not stand for racism. I made a mistake by the words I chose yesterday.
My heart is deeply saddened by the pain it has caused. It was a mistake, not racist but a mistake.
Floyd is a hero in the black community and not just a victim. I should have been sensitive to that and wasn’t. I apologize for that. I was trying to stick it to the @IHME_UW for their invalidated models resulting in needless, economy-wrecking, life-wrecking lockdown, and when I saw they were announcing modeling a solution to our racial crisis, I was incredulous, angry, and overly emotional. Involving George Floyd’s name in that effort was wrong.
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It’s our hope that his murder catalyzes real change resulting in a level playing field for our black brothers and sisters.
Please hear me when I say, we stand by our community to fight for justice. I care about you, our community, and I am here for you.”
Floyd is a hero in the black community and not just a victim. I should have been sensitive to that and wasn't. I apologize for that. I was trying to stick it to the @IHME_UW for their invalidated models resulting in needless, economy-wrecking, life-wrecking lockdown,
— CrossFit (@CrossFit) June 8, 2020
It’s our hope that his murder catalyzes real change resulting in a level playing field for our black brothers and sisters.
Please hear me when I say, we stand by our community to fight for justice. I care about you, our community, and I am here for you."
— CrossFit (@CrossFit) June 8, 2020
Although there is something to be said for the willingness of Greg Glassman to apologize for this indiscretion, not many people are buying his sincerity. The comments of the thread are riddled with fans who feel that this is an effort to control the damage he caused, and not a genuine apology. Obviously the situation he commented on is a very touchy one for most people, but in the end it is up to you to decide how you take this apology.
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