Michael Jordan and Killer Mike (Wikipedia/Facebook)
Rapper Killer Mike thanked NBA great Michael Jordan for his million-dollar contributions to a Black community group and a police organization last month, but he wants the basketball legend to take his charity a step further.
Atlanta Black Star reported Jordan donated $1 million to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and another $1 million to the International Association of Chiefs of Police’s Institute for Community-Police Relations. It was the first time Jordan spoke out about violence by and against African-Americans.
“I am saddened and frustrated by the divisive rhetoric and racial tensions that seem to be getting worse as of late,” he said at the time. “I know this country is better than that, and I can no longer stay silent.”
Jordan had been criticized for not taking a strong enough stand when it came to racial violence since he gave equal donations to the two organizations. Jason Whitlock of Fox Sports’ “Speak For Yourself” was one detractor.
“Michael Jordan is cutting a $2 million check to restore his image,” Whitlock said in the July 25 episode. “His image has been taking a beating over the last 10 years.”
Mike wants the athlete to invest in Black America more than he has. In an Instagram post made Aug. 6, Mike asks Jordan to place profits generated from the forthcoming Air Jordan 5 Retro “Gold Medal” sneaker into a Black-owned bank.
“We know that with your example other Players will follow,” the MC wrote. “I’m sure Jim Brown, Kareem & Bill Russell will agree. Love ya man. U truly were/are the greatest.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/BIx4YhyhzUJ/
He also issues a challenge to the Black community and its allies.
“Black People and Allies of Black people instead of buying this or any shoe. (1) Start an account with a black bank or credit union,” he began. “(2) Save 300 bucks and get a secured credit card (#citzenstrustbank has a good one). (3). Charge these or any shoe, pay your bill on time building your credit.”
According to Sole Collector, the Gold Metal Air Jordan is expected to be released Aug. 20. It retails for $190 and celebrates this year’s Olympic Games in Rio, Brazil.
Mike has been a key figure in the bank Black movement spurred last month. Black-owned financial institution OneUnited Bank announced on its Facebook page that $10 million has been moved to accounts there in less than one month.
