Major League Soccer is doing its due diligence to recognize Juneteenth.
Major League Soccer announced a “wide-ranging series of initiatives to celebrate Juneteenth in partnership with its Clubs, Adidas and Black Players for Change (BPC), an independent organization of Black MLS players, coaches and staff working to bridge the racial equality gap in soccer and society.”
This year, these celebrations commemorate Juneteenth, amplifying the voices of the Black community well beyond sports.
To highlight Juneteenth, MLS is partnering with Black Players for Change as well as Adidas to introduce a special edition pre-match “I Am #19” shirt that acknowledges the impact of Juneteenth. The pre-match shirt, which is designed by Adidas licensed Sports Graphics Manager Todd Stansbury, is slated to be worn by players amid pre-match warm-ups before MLS matches between June 15-19.
“Juneteenth is a day to honor the power and promise of the human spirit,” said Sola Winley, Executive Vice President, Chief Engagement and Inclusion Officer of Major League Soccer. “MLS is a community of players from 79 countries, who will join together to amplify in unison the enduring message of freedom and change. A heartfelt thank you to our friends at Black Players for Change, and our incredibly supportive partners at Adidas for celebrating the beauty in all.”
And, the partners are releasing a new “Generations” campaign, which will be a photoshoot featuring FC Cincinnati and US Men’s National Team defender, Miles Robinson. A short movie will also be released, which is called “The Generations.” It will relay the message that the game represents courage, resilience and a pathway to opportunity and freedom.
“It is so important to recognize the ongoing work that Black Players for Change has done and will continue to do for the African American community”, said Robinson. “MLS, Adidas and BPC have provided a platform to celebrate, honor, and educate the league and our fans about African American history with this year’s Juneteenth pre-match tops. It is key to use these efforts as steppingstones to a brighter, more just future for all,” added Robinson.
“Juneteenth holds profound significance in the history and culture of our community, and the 2024 pre-match tops symbolize Black Players for Change’s ongoing commitment to honor the past while inspiring future generations,” says Allen Hopkins Jr., Executive Director, Black Players for Change.
“Through this collaboration and partnership with Major League Soccer and Adidas, the pre-match tops serve as a powerful reminder of our shared journey and the progress we continue to strive for within the sport and beyond. They embody the principles of equality and connectedness, emphasizing that when we stand together, we are stronger and more unified in our pursuit of advancement and equality.”
