Michael Jordan and Jordan Brand to Donate $100 Million to Groups Ensuring Racial Equality

Nike released a statement revealing Michael Jordan's pledge of $100 million in a span of 10 years in support of efforts to attain racial equality.

Michael Jordan has made a long-term commitment in support of the #BlackLivesMatter movement.

According to a statement released by Nike for Jordan and his brand, the NBA legend pledged $100 million for the continued efforts to eradicate racial discrimination and uphold racial equality.

Jordan previously expressed his sadness and anger over recent events concerning George Floyd’s death.

A LONG-TERM COMMITMENT

The sizeable donation will be spread across 10 years and will also be used to promote social justice and provide the Black community with better access to education. The statement shared on June 5 and posted by Jordan added,

“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.”

Craig Williams, president of Jordan Brand also revealed that for years, the Jordan Wings Program has been “providing access to education, mentorship, and opportunity for Black youth facing the obstacles of systemic racism.” However, he added that there’s still room to do more.

“There is still more work for us to do to drive real impact for the Black Community. We embrace the responsibility."

ANGERED BY FLOYD'S DEATH

Jordan previously expressed his sadness and anger over recent events concerning George Floyd’s death. He likewise aligned himself with those fighting against racism and violence towards colored people.

“I don’t have the answers,” he wrote in his statement posted on his Instagram account. “But our collective voices show strength and the inability to be divided by others,” he encouraged. In a separate post, he also encouraged his followers to "be a part of the change.

OTHER NBA LEGENDS WHO SPOKE UP

Jordan joins fellow basketball legends who've also been expressing their solidarity for #BlackLivesMatter and supporting the nationwide protests calling for the conviction of the policemen responsible for Floyd's death.

This includes Shaquille O'Neal who posted a black screen on social media and called for justice for Floyd and LeBron James who highlighted the beauty of the protests.

The Los Angeles Lakers' star shared a video of people in Colorado flocking to the streets in unity. Prior to this, he also shared a video of a peaceful protest in Washington DC and questioned why the media wasn't covering it.