The private company that owns the Philadelphia 76ers and the New Jersey Devils has pledged to donate $20 million over the next five years toward the fight against systemic racism and the promotion of racial equity.
The Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment announced the 76ers would donate $10 million to the NBA and National Basketball Players Association’s recently developed foundation which aims to “drive economic empowerment for Black communities through employment and career advancement.”
As for the rest of the money, $2.5 million is for real estate projects and improving “resident quality of life and further equitable development in Black communities.”
HBSE will also contribute $5 million to support Black-owned businesses, and the remaining $2.5 million will go towards education, health and employment in Black communities.
“As leaders and stewards of community pillars, the eyes of the world are on us to do better, and they should be. While we will never be able to correct the past harm and injustice faced by Black Americans, it’s our duty to provide resources that enable tangible action and greater opportunities for equality,” HBSE said in a release. “We are committing to a fundamental change in our business strategy by embedding our organization with Black communities and businesses through significant and sustained investment and support. We are deeply committed to fighting for a better, more inclusive future and we pledge to be leaders in doing so.”
HBSE joins a list of accomplished people who have pledged money in support of black lives and black rights.
Michael Jordan and the Jordan brand, for example, committed to donate $100 million over the next 10 years to organizations that are dedicated to promoting racial equality and social justice.
“Black lives matter,” Jordan and his brand said in a statement. “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.”
They have also contributed $2.5 million towards the fight against Black voter suppression.