Irving to make US$500,000 donation after anti-semitism furore

NEW YORK: Brooklyn Nets star Kyrie Irving will make a US$500,000 donation to groups working to eradicate hate after admitting on Wednesday (Nov 2) that a film slammed as anti-semitic which he boosted on social media had a "negative impact" on the Jewish community.

Irving ignited a firestorm of controversy last week after posting a link to the 2018 film Hebrews To Negroes: Wake Up Black America on social media.

The film, based on a 2015 book of the same name, has been widely lambasted for containing a range of anti-semitic tropes.

Nets owner Joe Tsai had criticised Irving's boosting of the film.

"I'm disappointed that Kyrie appears to support a film based on a book full of anti-Semitic disinformation," Tsai said.

However Irving had steadfastly refused to apologize for his post, insisting accusations of "anti-semitism" were unfair.

"The 'antisemitic' label that is being pushed on me is not justified and does not reflect the reality or truth I live in every day," Irving said on Saturday.

"I embrace and want to learn from all walks of life and religions."

In a press conference on Sunday, Irving denied his posting a link to the film constituted "promoting" its views.

However after a wave of condemnation from former players and anti-racism campaigners, Irving softened his position on Wednesday.

A joint statement released by Irving, the Nets and the Anti-Defamation League revealed that Irving and Brooklyn would each give US$500,000 to anti-hate groups following the controversy.

Irving meanwhile admitted that his post had been ill-judged.

"I oppose all forms of hatred and oppression and stand strong with communities that are marginalised and impacted every day," Irving said.

"I am aware of the negative impact of my post towards the Jewish