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Philadelphia Eagles to take ‘appropriate action’ over DeSean Jackson’s antisemitic posts

Jackson has apologised after making anti-Semitic posts: Getty
Jackson has apologised after making anti-Semitic posts: Getty

The Philadelphia Eagles will take “appropriate action” against DeSean Jackson following the wide receiver’s anti-Semitic posts on social media.

The NFL side labelled Jackson’s posts as “offensive, harmful, and absolutely appalling”.

One of Jackson’s posts included an image of a book page with anti-Semitic quotes falsely attributed to Adolf Hitler – which claimed Jews in America would “blackmail” and “extort” the country.

Jackson also praised political activist Louis Farrakhan, whom the Anti-Defamation League and Southern Poverty Law Center have identified as anti-Semitic.

Philadelphia’s owner Jeffrey Lurie and general manager Howie Roseman are both Jewish.

Jackson has apologised after making anti-Semitic posts (Getty)
Jackson has apologised after making anti-Semitic posts (Getty)

A team statement read: “Regardless of his intentions, the messages he shared were offensive, harmful, and absolutely appalling,” the statement added. “They have no place in our society, and are not condoned or supported in any way by the organisation.

“We are disappointed and we reiterated to DeSean the importance of not only apologising, but also using his platform to take action and promote unity, equality, and respect. We are continuing to evaluate the circumstances and will take appropriate action.

“We take these matters very seriously and are committed to continuing to have productive and meaningful conversations with DeSean, as well as all of our players and staff, in order to educate, learn, and grow.

The former Washington Redskins and Tampa Bay Buccaneers star maintains there is “no hatred in my heart towards no-one. Equality, equality”.

Jackson admitted he had made a “mistake” and had contacted the rabbi at Chabad Young Philly to discuss ways he could donate towards and help the organisation.

He added in a statement: “I post a lot of things that are sent to me. I do not have hatred towards anyone. I really didn’t realise what this passage was saying.

“Hitler has caused terrible pain to Jewish people like the pain African-Americans have suffered. We should be together fighting anti-Semitism and racism.

“This was a mistake to post this and I truly apologise for posting it and sorry for any hurt I have caused.”

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