Michael Jordan and the Jordan Brand have released a statement saying that they have pledged to donate $100 million over the next 10 years to organizations that are dedicated to promoting racial equality and social justice.
“Jordan Brand is us, the Black Community,” the joint statement reads. “Jordan Brand is more than one man. It has always been a family. We represent a proud family that has overcome obstacles, fought against discrimination in communities worldwide and that works every day to erase the stain of racism and the damage of injustice. The will, the work, the excellence the world has come to know is the result of one generation after another, pouring their dreams into the next.”
“Black lives matter,” the statement continued. “This isn’t a controversial statement. Until the ingrained racism that allows our country’s institutions to fail is completely eradicated, we will remain committed to protecting and improving the lives of Black people. Today, we are announcing that Michael Jordan and Jordan Brand will be donating $100 million over the next 10 years to organizations dedicated to ensuring racial equality, social justice and greater access to education.”
Earlier this week, Jordan released a statement saying that he was infuriated over the killing of George Floyd. “I am deeply saddened, truly pained and plain angry,” the former NBA player said on May 31. “I see and feel everyone’s pain, outrage and frustration. I stand with those who are calling out the ingrained racism and violence toward people of color in our country. We have had enough.”
“Our unified voice needs to put pressure on our leaders to change our laws, or else we need to use our vote to create systemic change,” his statement continued. “Every one of us needs to be part of the solution and we must work together to ensure justice for all. My heart goes out to the family of George Floyd and to the countless others whose lives have been brutally and senselessly taken through acts of racism and injustice.”
Check out their full statement below.