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USIEA: NEWSPAPER DELETES COLUMN COMPARING THUNDER TO ISRAEL
Project type
News Article
Date
2026
An Oklahoma newspaper deleted a guest column comparing the Oklahoma City Thunder and Israel as underdogs that became successful and increasingly disliked for it. After the essay went viral online, it was removed without explanation. USIEA Chairman Bruce Pearl responded: “The comparison is compelling because both Israel and the Thunder punch above their weight and are resented for it. We should celebrate hard work, innovation, and overcoming obstacles.” Why It Matters: A healthy society depends on open debate and the free exchange of ideas. Silencing or removing pro-Israel viewpoints simply because they provoke controversy narrows public discourse and discourages honest conversation.
May 21, 2026