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"Face up to your demons. Extend a hand.
Understand the inequalities," Jordan said in an interview with
The Charlotte Observer.
"We have been beaten down (as African-Americans) for so many
years. It sucks your soul. You can't accept it anymore. This is
a tipping point. We need to make a stand. We've got to be better
as a society regarding race," Jordan said.
Jordan issued a statement on June 5 regarding Jordan Brand's
commitment.
"Black lives matter. This isn't a controversial statement," read
the joint statement from Jordan and his company on Friday.
"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."
Part of the initiative involves creating greater access to
education.
"Through our Jordan Wings Program, we have been focused on
providing access to education, mentorship and opportunity for
Black youth facing the obstacles of systemic racism. But we know
we can do more," Jordan Brand president Craig Williams said in a
statement. "... There is still more work for us to do to drive
real impact for the Black Community. We embrace the
responsibility."
The Jordan Brand pledge was preceded earlier Friday by Nike
announcing a "Commitment to the Black Community" plan in which
$40 million would be pledged collectively by Nike, Converse and
Jordan Brand.
--Field Level Media
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