What to know
- Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Anthony Santander has apologized after sharing Islamophobic posts on his Instagram story following the Nov. 4 U.S. midterm elections.
- Santander says he recognizes that the content caused harm and that he should have been more thoughtful about what he shared.
- The player also reaffirmed his respect for the Muslim community, saying everyone deserves dignity and respect regardless of their religion or background.
- The Blue Jays previously condemned the posts and apologized to the Muslim community and fans, but have not publicly indicated whether Santander will face disciplinary consequences.
Blue Jays’ right fielder Anthony Santander has issued an apology after facing backlash for sharing Islamophobic posts on his social media.
Through a short message shared on his Instagram story on Friday afternoon, the player apologized for the posts and said he should have been more careful and responsible for what he shared.
Santander said he realizes the posts “fell short of [his] own convictions” after hearing from critics and taking time to reflect.
“I realize that this content caused hurt and I sincerely apologize. I should have been more thoughtful about what I shared, recognizing the repo sensibility that comes with having a public voice,” he said.
The right fielder also said he “would like to affirm [his] respect for the Muslim community,” and that he believes people should be respected regardless of their religion or background.
“It is my belief that every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their religion, background, or beliefs. After hearing feedback from those I hurt, I realize that the content I shared fell short of my own convictions,” he added.
Islamophobic posts came after U.S. midterms, Blue Jays apology
Santander shared multiple anti-Islamic comments on his Instagram story after the United States midterm elections on Nov. 4.
One of the posts included a photo of Michigan senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed, with a thumbnail that said “America voted for Sharia (Law) last night.” Another post claimed Islam was not a peaceful religion.
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The post quickly gained traction online and many Blue Jays fans heavily criticized the player.
After extensive backlash, the Blue Jays issued a statement condemning Islamophobia and apologizing to the Muslim community. The team did not say whether Santander would face any consequences for the posts.
“We met with leaders in Toronto’s Muslim communities today, who shared the harm caused by Anthony Santander’s Islamophobic social media posts. The opportunity to listen and learn was important and reaffirms our beliefs and values as an organization,” the team stated.
“We condemn Islamophobia and all forms of hate. The Blue Jays are deeply sorry to the Muslim community and our fans for the pain and harm these Islamophobic posts have caused.”
