Former NBA star Michael Jordan has pledged $100 million over the next ten years to organisations dedicated to racial equality, following the death of George Floyd in police custody.
The Chicago Bulls legend posted the news alongside a statement in support of Black Lives Matter, stating the funds would be given over the next 10 years, dedicated to 'protecting and improving the lives of Black people through actions dedicated towards racial equality, social justice and education.'
The statement reads: "Jordan Brand is more than one man. It has always been a family. We represent a proud family that has overcome obstacles, fought against discrimination in communities worldwide and that works every day to erase the stain of racism and the damage of injustice.
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"The will, the work, the excellence the world has come to know is the result of one generation after another, pouring their dreams into the next.
"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 Jordan Brand will be $100 million over the next 10 years to organisations dedicated to ensuring racial equality, social justice and greater access to education."
Earlier this week, Jordan spoke publicly about his feelings regarding Floyd's death
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He said: "I am deeply saddened, truly pained and plain angry.
"I see and feel everyone's pain, outrage and frustration. I stand with those who are calling out the ingrained racism and violence toward people of colour in our country. We have had enough."
The promise of funds follows rapper Kanye West's announcement yesterday (4 June) that he will pay the college tuition fees for George Floyd's daughter Gianna.
The rapper has also made a $2 million (£1.6m) donation in order to support the families of Ahmaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor.
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A representative for West told news channel CNN that the generous donation doesn't just include funding for legal fees for Arbery and Taylor's families, but also for Black-owned businesses in his hometown of Chicago (and other cities) that are in crisis.
West's representative said that West has established a 529 education plan - a tax-advantaged investment vehicle in the States designed to encourage saving for future higher education expenses - that will fully cover tuition expenses for Gianna Floyd, the six-year-old daughter of George Floyd.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Black Lives Matter, SPORT, US News
