Michael Jordan Just Did Something Huge For The Black Lives Matter Movement

From athletes to political activists, everyone is speaking out on the recent violence that has befallen the United States of America.

Now, it's NBA legend Michael Jordan's turn.

Earlier today, Jordan made a powerful statement addressing the shootings of African-Americans and the targeting of law enforcement officials. In an essay for The Undefeated, Jordan wrote,

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. I grieve with the families who have lost loved ones, as I know their pain all too well.

He continued,

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.

Michael Jordan's words are incredibly powerful and poignant. We cannot fight senseless violence with more senseless violence.

Jordan's words also speak volumes in that they make the seemingly obvious point there's nothing wrong with being both pro-Black Lives Matter and anti-police violence -- something that seems lost among a lot of Americans right now.

Much like his game on the basketball court, when it comes to taking an actual stand against violence and speaking up for those in need, Michael Jordan doesn't just talk about it, he is about it.

According to his essay, Jordan will donate $1 million each to the International Association of Chiefs of Police's Institute for Community-Police Relations and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund.

Jordan ended his essay on a positive note, urging us all to remember how lucky we are to live in the United States. He wrote,

We are privileged to live in the world's greatest country -- a country that has provided my family and me the greatest of opportunities. The problems we face didn't happen overnight and they won't be solved tomorrow, but if we all work together, we can foster greater understanding, positive change and create a more peaceful world for ourselves, our children, our families and our communities.

Well said, Michael. Well said.

Citations: MICHAEL JORDAN: 'I CAN NO LONGER STAY SILENT' (The Undefeated)