Behind the Badge
Michael Jordan will donate $2 million to foster better police-community relations in response to heated backlash that followed several officer-involved shootings of black men, which led to the recent targeted killing of eight police officers.
Jordan announced in a statement published on the Undefeated that he will donate $1 million each to the International Association of Chiefs of Police’s Institute for Community-Police Relations and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, hoping the contributions will inspire positive changes.
“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,” Jordan wrote. “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.”
In the letter, Jordan speaks of his admiration for law enforcement and their dedication to keeping his family safe over the years, but also acknowledges that his experience is likely much different because of his status as a basketball legend.
“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,” he wrote. “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.”
Read his entire statement HERE.
