NBA Relocates 2017 All-Star Game in Light of North Carolina's New HB2 Law

Since March, North Carolina and various parts of the country have debated over North Carolina’s recently-passed HB2 law, which is better known as the Public Facilities Privacy & Security Act.

According to the North Carolina legislature, the HB2 law is “an act to provide for single-sex multiple occupancy and changing facilities in schools and public agencies and to create statewide consistency in regulation of employment and public accomdations.” Ultimately, it highlights the “need” for security in public restrooms for the LGBT community. 

In an effort to foster an all-inclusive NBA All-Star game in 2017 that recognizes “diversity and respect for others,” the National Basketball Association has decided to move next year’s festivities from Charlotte, NC, and relocate them to a city soon-to-be announced.

Bill Could Drastically Cut Funding to Three North Carolina HBCUs

To explain its decision, the organization released a statement yesterday afternoon saying, “Our week-long schedule of All-Star events and activities is intended to be a global celebration of basketball, our league, and the values for which we stand, and to bring together all members of the NBA community – current and former players, league and team officials, business partners, and fans. While we recognize that the NBA cannot choose the law in every city, state, and country in which we do business, we do not believe we can successfully host our All-Star festivities in Charlotte in the climate created by HB2.”

The statement went on to acknowledge the impact this decision will have on NC basketball fans. “We are particularly mindful of the impact of this decision on our fans in North Carolina, who are among the most passionate in our league. It is also important to stress that the City of Charlotte and the Hornets organization have sought to provide an inclusive environment and that the Hornets will continue to ensure that all patrons – including members of the LGBT community – feel welcome while attending games and events in their arena.”

While the NBA All-Star 2017 events have no new official city, Yahoo! Sports reports that the NBA is strongly considering hosting the week-long festivities in New Orleans.

WANT MORE FROM ESSENCE? Subscribe to our daily newsletter for the latest in hair, beauty, style and celebrity news.