It's not my intent to criticize his gesture. I'm just pointing out how this still aligns with his past comments, "Republican's buy sneakers, too". He donated to both a police organization and an established "acceptable" black organization, even though the NAACP, is seen by many as too political and not enough grass roots, and not doing enough on trying to stop police brutality, or at least not being VISIBLE in the work they are doing to combat this problem. It's like he picked the most vanilla of black organizations to donate to. As I've said before though, visibility or lack there of is not an indicator of what work is being done.
That said, this is major. Jordan is highly respected. People will automatically assume if he is speaking out there MUST be a real problem that needs to be addressed. His involvement is not going to be excused as easily, and he does not have a history of being outspokenly "pro black" to where they can dismiss him as continuing a crusade on behalf of his people. Also, although I don't think the NAACP is as impactful as other groups, that will also be a plus with white media/white folks who are easily threatened and put on the defensive. More militant groups like BLM would be a distraction. He will automatically get interviews which will be replayed not only on sports related networks, but nationally, based simply off of his name, history, and reputation. Michael has an audience of young and old and has been admired by all. Kids are always wanting to jump on the band wagon of their favorite celebrity so they can feel involved. This is why Beyonce was attacked so, they don't want white kids taking up the cause (of protecting black life) she believes in. So I'm not belittling his actions at all. Considering his status this may have been the best, most effective move for him.
I don't think there is any one way to address the issue of police brutality and racism. I don't criticize the groups that protest, or the ones who seek change through the political system. I don't criticize those who go out in the streets, or those who can only help by donating or amplifying voices. The problem of police brutality needs to be attacked on all sides by as many different resources as possible. One means of doing the work does not negate the other means. Get in where you fit in, as far as I'm concerned.
Edit/Clarification: I don't consider BLM militant, but that is the perception of many white people, especially with Fox pushing the meme that they should be named a terrorist organization.
mike you ain't slick...you give up 2mill now . ..in order to get 10mill when the NBA bring that all star game back in 2017.. You got a good p.r. agent tho...
