With racial injustice and inequality unfortunately a fixture in our day-to-day, and a mirror to just how ugly we’ve become as Americans, the effects are being felt in every aspect of U.S. culture. Not only do these killings and acts of violence emotionally hinder you and I, but also many of the very people who curate the culture we hold so dear.<\/p>\n
Nike’s Mark Parker<\/strong> isn’t immune to these hard times that often come at the hands of police killings of black bodies.\u00a0Following the slaying of Philando Castile, Alton Sterling and the mass shootings of police officers in Dallas, Parker penned a touching letter to Nike employees to not only express how he felt about equality and the importance of black lives, but equally how Nike endears blacks as a whole.<\/p>\n “Team,<\/em><\/p>\n Like many of you, I\u2019m struggling to make sense of the incomprehensible. We have experienced heartbreaking, disturbing and challenging times in the United States. I have watched with sorrow the events that took place across the U.S. The loss and pain experienced in Minnesota, Louisiana and Dallas have left communities, institutions and even the nation tested. Our thoughts are with all those impacted and their families and friends.<\/em><\/p>\n Nike has a long history of supporting the marginalized and those whose voice is not always heard. In many cases our athletes have eloquently argued for change and to stop the situation. Last night, at the ESPYs, we heard athletes like LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul powerfully speak out about the issues facing society. Others, like Serena Williams, have also made their voices heard.<\/em><\/p>\n As a company, I\u2019m proud that Nike takes a stand on issues that impact all of us, our athletes and society as a whole. And I am proud that Nike stands against discrimination in any form. We stand against bigotry. We stand for racial justice. We firmly believe the world can improve. We are a diverse company and, as we stated in our recent Sustainable Business Report, are firmly committed to making it more diverse and inclusive.<\/em><\/p>\n