Michael Jordan and his company to donate $100m over next 10 years to support fight for racial equality

Six-time NBA champion made the announcement amid further protests in the US

Tom Kershaw
Saturday 06 June 2020 10:31 BST
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George Floyd's brother pays tribute at memorial

Michael Jordan and his company have pledged to donate $100m (£79m) over the next decade to organisations supporting the fight for racial equality and social justice.

The announcement comes amid further protests in the United States following the death of George Floyd, an unarmed black man in handcuffs, by a white policeman in Minnesota on 25 May.

In a statement, the Jordan Brand said: “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.

“Today, we are announcing that Michael Jordan and the 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.”

Elsewhere, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell admitted that the league had failed to listen to players’ protests over racial inequality and would no longer punish those who kneel during the national anthem.

In a statement released on Twitter, Goodell said: “We, the National Football League, condemn racism and the systematic oppression of black people.

“We, the National Football League, admit we were wrong for not listening to NFL players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest.

“We, the National Football League, believe Black Lives Matter. I personally protest with you and want to be part of the much needed change in this country.

“Without black players, there would be no National Football League. And the protests around the country are emblematic of the centuries of silence, inequality and oppression of black players, coaches, fans and staff. We are listening. I am listening, and I will be reaching out to players who have raised their voices and others on how we can improve and go forward for a better and more united NFL family.”

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