Michael Jordan in 2014 (illustration). – Charlotte Observer / TNS / Sipa USA /
It is certainly the biggest pledge ever made by a sports figure to non-profit charities. The author is none other than NBA legend Michael Jordan. The latter announced that he would donate, with Jordan Brand, $ 100 million to organizations working for racial equality and social justice. This sum will be spread “over the next 10 years”.
A fortune estimated at 2.1 billion dollars
The personal fortune of Jordan, considered the greatest player in NBA history and owner of the Charlotte Hornets franchise, is estimated to be $ 2.1 billion. If this donation represents a little less than 5% of the assets of the star, its importance testifies especially to the strong emotion aroused by the death of George Floyd during his arrest on May 25 in Minneapolis.
“We are in 2020, and our Jordan family includes everyone who aspires to our way of life. Although a lot has changed, the worst behaviors persist, “said the former player. “Black Lives Matter. This is not a controversial claim. Until this entrenched racism that causes the bankruptcy of our nation’s institutions is completely eradicated, we will continue to be committed to protecting and improving the lives of black people, “said former Chicago Bulls star six-time NBA champion. .
An unusual position
This public gesture is not necessarily usual for Jordan. Very reluctant during his playing career to speak up to protest against racial or societal problems in the United States, a mutism for which he has often been criticized, he nevertheless expressed his anger the past week after the death of Floyd, joining the choir of the very many athletes to be indignant.
Will recent events encourage Jordan to make a lasting change to his line? In the recent documentary “The Last Dance” devoted to the epic Bulls in the 1990s, Jordan argued that until now he had never seen himself as a committed athlete. “I congratulate Muhammad Ali for defending his beliefs. But I never considered myself an activist. I considered myself a basketball player. “
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