Michael Speaks Out
Michael Jordan released an open letter today along with a donation of 2million dollars to support the end of police brutality against people of colour in Amerikkka! Talk about a legendary move. One million will go to the International Association of Chiefs of Police’s newly established Institute for Community-Police Relations and the other million to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. Michael Jordan isn’t just collecting money, he is putting his money where his heart is and letting the nation know he is behind the cause. It takes a lot for a celebrity of his caliber to step out and speak towards something so sensitive. Many in Michael’s position wouldn’t, in fear of losing endorsements, partnerships, fans, etc. But Michael Jordan is a legend and he is making sure his legacy and his voice is being heard.
“I can no longer stay silent…”
A powerful statement which allows the readers to realize his growth. Staying silent is something one does on purpose, staying silent is something that greatly effects communities when any one voice could change the way someone feels, and you never know if its your voice or not. Letting us know that he has been silent but wishes to no longer stay that way is a powerful message that many should learn from, here’s what Michael Jordan had to say;
“As a proud [Afrikan] American, a father who lost his own dad in a senseless act of violence, and a black man, I have been deeply troubled by the deaths of African-Americans at the hands of law enforcement and angered by the cowardly and hateful targeting and killing of police officers. I grieve with the families who have lost loved ones, as I know their pain all too well.
“I was raised by parents who taught me to love and respect people regardless of their race or background, so I am saddened and frustrated by the divisive rhetoric and racial tensions that seem to be getting worse as of late. I know this country is better than that, and I can no longer stay silent. We need to find solutions that ensure people of color receive fair and equal treatment AND that police officers – who put their lives on the line every day to protect us all – are respected and supported.
“Over the past three decades I have seen up close the dedication of the law enforcement officers who protect me and my family. I have the greatest respect for their sacrifice and service. I also recognize that for many people of color their experiences with law enforcement have been different than mine. I have decided to speak out in the hope that we can come together as Americans, and through peaceful dialogue and education, achieve constructive change.
“To support that effort, I am making contributions of $1 million each to two organizations, the International Association of Chiefs of Police’s newly established Institute for Community-Police Relations and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. The Institute for Community-Police Relations’ policy and oversight work is focused on building trust and promoting best practices in community policing. My donation to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, the nation’s oldest civil rights law organization, will support its ongoing work in support of reforms that will build trust and respect between communities and law enforcement. Although I know these contributions alone are not enough to solve the problem, I hope the resources will help both organizations make a positive difference.”
#SOULdiers, WHAT CAN WE DO TO HELP?!
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