Nike is investing in 53 national and local social justice, economic empowerment, and educational nonprofits, and it has signed on three national partners in its movement since the death of George Floyd, the company announced.
In a press release, Nike stated it would donate $8.9 million in new investments in 2023 to nonprofit organizations in the following cities: Boston; Chicago; Los Angeles; Memphis; New York City; Portland; Oregon, and St. Louis.
These eight cities, all of which make up Nike’s local efforts, are getting renewed investments, and they received $5.75 million in the past.
Nike’s Response to George Floyd Murder
Nike was one of the first corporations to speak out against Floyd’s death, Fox Business reported.
Floyd was killed in Minneapolis police custody on May 25, 2020. His death triggered public outrage for police accountability and racial justice.
Nike’s Black Community Commitment began in June 2020 with a commitment of $40 million over four years, and both Jordan Brand and Michael Jordan committed a total of $100 million over 10 years.
“Systemic racism and the events that have unfolded across America over the past few weeks serve as an urgent reminder of the continued change needed in our society,” said Nike CEO and president John Donahoe. “We know Black Lives Matter. We must educate ourselves more deeply on the issues faced by Black communities and understand the enormous suffering and senseless tragedy racial bigotry creates.”
What Nike is Committing to
Nike’s investment for 2023 will include 53 national and local nonprofit organizations focused on education innovation, economic empowerment and social justice. The new national grantees include BUILD, Fearless Foundation and the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation. Additionally, Nike is renewing seven national grantees for a total of $5.75 million in investments in these organizations.
The announcement was expected as the company released a campaign featuring Kevin Durant during Black History Month, indicating that the sports apparel giant would continue donating.
Nike is on track to have committed $40 million in grants through its Black Community Commitment, having already invested $28.9 million with national and city-specific partners through its Black Community Commitment.
