$100 M for racial equality
LOS ANGELES (AFP) — Michael Jordan said Friday he is making a record $100-million donation to groups fighting for racial equality and social justice amid a wave of protests across the United States.
The NBA legend said in a statement his Jordan Brand would distribute the money over 10 years to different organizations in a bid to stamp out “ingrained racism.’’
The pledge is believed to be the largest financial contribution to nonprofit groups ever made by a figure from the sports world.
“It’s 2020 and our family now includes anyone who aspires to our way of life,’’ a joint statement from Jordan and his Jordan Brand said.
“Yet as much as things have changed the worst remains the same.
“Black lives matter. 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,’’ the statement added.
“Today we are announcing that Michael Jordan and Jordan Brand will be donating $100 million over the next 10 years to organisations dedicated to ensuring racial equality, social justice and greater access to education.’’
Jordan’s donation comes after a week of unprecedented nationwide protests across the United States following the death of an unarmed black man during an arrest in Minneapolis.
Large-scale demonstrations have been held in all 50 states, with protesters demanding an end to police brutality and systemic racism after George Floyd’s death on May 25.