Michael Jordan Speaks out about Shootings, Police Officers

NBA great Michael Jordan opened up about his thoughts about shootings of African-Americans and the targeting of police officers. In a letter on The Undefeated, Jordan expresses his concerns and hopes.

Jordan has unfortunately experienced the loss of a loved one due to gun violence. In 1993, his father James Jordan was shot to death while taking a nap in his car on the side of the road in North Carolina. Jordan writes he has seen the dedication of the law enforcement who have protected him and his family. He also notes that not everyone of color has that same experience.

Michael Jordan's full statement to @TheUndefeated: https://t.co/9vqvxQhfTA pic.twitter.com/4SfqmwysFl

— ESPN (@espn) July 25, 2016

In an effort to help the country’s current situation, Jordan donated a million dollars to two organizations. The first million to the Institute for Community-Police Relations and the other to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. The Institute for Community-Police Relations was established by the International Association of Chiefs of Police in May of this year to better the relationship between law enforcement agencies and the community. Founded in 1940, the NAACP Legal Defense Fund is the first civil and human rights firm in the country.

Jordan writes that he realizes change won’t come overnight, but working together can lead to a positive change.