Dodgers Players Release Statement Supporting Black Teammates and Social Justice Organizations in Los Angeles

Via L.A. Dodgers PR:

Los Angeles – In a show of solidarity, Dodger players today released a powerful message, speaking out against racial injustice in America and committing to using their platforms to amplify the voices of social justice organizations on the ground in Los Angeles. The players will also match funds raised from the “In This Together” special edition t-shirts benefitting the California Funders for Boys & Men of Color Southern California: Our Kids, Our Future Fund (CFBMoC).

Clayton Kershaw, who recently put out a statement in support of Black Lives Matter, bookended the message which features nine additional players – Cody Bellinger, Walker Buehler, Kiké Hernández, Gavin Lux, Joc Pederson, A.J. Pollock, Ross Stripling, Justin Turner and Alex Wood.

“For centuries, the Black community has lived in a different America. Instead of addressing racism, inequality, and injustice, many of us simply look away,” said Kershaw. “Silence is no longer an option. I’m fighting for my teammates, their families, and their communities.”

Earlier this week, Kershaw, Pederson, Stripling and Turner joined the inspirational leaders of the Brotherhood Crusade, Children’s Defense Fund of California, Brothers, Sons, Selves Coalition and the Community Coalition, four of thirteen organizations in the CFBMOC. The organizations shared the history of racial and social inequities in Los Angeles and how their respective organizations have been working for decades to tackle systemic change. The players engaged in open and honest dialogue about how they want to use their platforms and resources to support and amplify this important work and be allies for the Black community.

This listening session was intended to be the start of many conversations between these leaders and the players, who learned their voices can truly make a difference. Together with the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation, the players will continue to use their platforms, keeping the invitation open for teammates to join in future opportunities.

During today’s workout, Dodger players will raise awareness for these organizations by wearing the “In This Together” t-shirts, which are available for purchase for a limited time at Dodgers.com/Together.