Carmelo Anthony Marches in Baltimore During Freddie Gray Protests

Professional athletes have the platform to make a statement if they so choose and stand up for what they believe. That's why New York Knicks star Carmelo Anthony has taken part in the Freddie Gray protests in Baltimore.

On Thursday, Anthony—who spent part of his childhood in Baltimore—marched in the streets with the other protesters.

Earlier this week, Anthony took to Instagram to give his thoughts on the situation in Baltimore:

Here's the caption that he included with the post:

"

We all want Justice. And our city will get the answers we are looking for. My deepest sympathy goes out to the GRAY Family. To see my city in a State of Emergency is just shocking. We need to protect our city, not destroy it. What happens when we get the answers that we want, and the media attention is not there anymore? We go back to being the same ol Baltimore City again. If not yourself, then Think about the youth. How this will impact them. Let's build our city up not tear it down. Although, we want justice, let's look at the real issues at hand. For example, When was the last school built in Baltimore? That's just one example. I know my community is fed up. I'm all about fighting for what we believe in. The anger, the resentment, the neglect that our community feels right now, will not change over night. Continue, fighting for what you believe in. But remember, it takes no time to destroy something. But, it can take forever to build it back up. Peace7. #Thisonehitshome #BeMore #LetsNotFallForTheTrap "Please Understand What State Of Emergency Mean"(Destroy and Conquer)
#StayMe7o

"

Although he had already spoken up, Anthony decided that he needed to go back to his city and take part in the march. In this case, actions really do speak louder than words. 

[Aaron Maybin, Carmelo Anthony]