Michael Jordan spent much of his NBA career shocking people through his amazing athletic feats.
Today he shocked the world in another way when he released a statement to ESPN's The Undefeated on the recent shootings of African-Americans and police officers.
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. 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.
In his statement, the six-time champion noted that although he is used to law enforcement protecting and serving his family, and has the greatest respect for them, he recognizes that isn't the experience for many people of color.
He also added that he hopes Americans can come together through peaceful dialogue and education to find a constructive change. To help that, he has pledged $1 million each to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and the International Association of Chiefs of Police's newly established Institute for Community-Police Relations.
"Although I know these contributions alone are not enough to solve the problem, I hope the resources will help both organizations make a positive difference," Jordan said.
All of this left Twitter in a bit of a tail spin because Jordan isn't known for speaking out for the black community or about social issues.
Some even wondered if this was a sign of an apocalypse of some sort.
Or just the end of times in general.
Others saw it as a mark we truly live in a world where anything can happen.
Because of this unfortunate truth.
So the fact that MJ finally spoke out left some feeling hopeful.
Inspired even.
But not everyone.
In part, because his donations included one to a police organization.
The only thing everyone had in common was shock.
Shit just got real.
