This archive report was first published on 6 June 2020.
LOS ANGELES - In a significant move, Michael Jordan has announced a Sh10 billion ($100 million) donation to organisations dedicated to racial equality and social justice in the United States.
The NBA legend made the announcement on Friday, stating that his Jordan Brand would distribute the money over 10 years to different organisations in a bid to stamp out ingrained racism.
According to Jordan, the donation is a response to the wave of protests across the country following the death of an unarmed black man during an arrest in Minneapolis.
Large-scale demonstrations have been held in all 50 states, with protesters demanding an end to police brutality and systemic racism.
Jordan's donation comes after a week of unprecedented nationwide protests, with the pledge believed to be the largest financial contribution to non-profit groups ever made by a figure from the sports world.
"It's 2020 and our family now includes anyone who aspires to our way of life," a joint statement from Jordan and his Jordan Brand said.
"Yet as much as things have changed, the worst remains the same. 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," the statement added.
Jordan's donation is a significant shift from his previous stance on social issues, with the NBA legend previously facing criticism for his reluctance to take a more prominent role in activist causes.
However, in a recent documentary, Jordan addressed his infamous quip that he had steered clear of politics because "Republicans buy sneakers too," stating that the remark had been a flippant comment made as a joke.
