Michael Jordan typically avoids commenting on political matters but recently issued a statement addressing the violence against both African Americans and police in the U.S.
Michael Jordan typically avoids commenting on political matters but recently issued a statement addressing the violence against both African Americans and police in the U.S.
It reads in part, “As a proud 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.”
Jordan also writes, “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."
While the sports legend acknowledges the road to resolving the issues will be long, he expresses his belief that change is possible "through peaceful dialogue and education."
In support of the effort, he has given the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and the Institute for Community-Police Relations a donation of $1 million each.
