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The Charlotte Hornets play the Chicago Bulls tonight at Spectrum Center at 7pm. This game carries a special message however, something way bigger than basketball…. social justice and equality.
This week Hornets Sports & Entertainment (HSE) launched a new initiative and a social justice platform to “promote inclusion, uplift voices and bridge divides in our community”.
“We are pleased to unveil our full Social Justice Platform as we look to make a meaningful impact in the areas of economic mobility, racial equity and voting,” said Hornets Sports & Entertainment President & Vice Chairman Fred Whitfield.
A great example of a well recognized and local brand taking corporate responsibility seriously, by adding real resources and efforts to improving live’s for it’s fans and the entire community.
As part of the launch, the organization unveiled a website at hornets.com/social-justice-platform that will include information on HSE’s initiatives, as well as links to external resources and organizations.
Before and during tonight’s contest, the Hornets will highlight local economic mobility efforts and inform fans how they can participate on the Hornets App, social media outlets and the game broadcasts on FOX Sports Southeast and WFNZ.
HSE is also putting it’s money where it’s mouth is, offering a chance for a significant investment to a locally-operated minority-owned organization or business.
Applications are being accepted for the first-ever Hornets Innovation Summit at hornets.com/innovation-summit.
This initiative invites businesses/groups located within 150 miles of Spectrum Center that are at least 51% operated and controlled by minority group members (i.e., individuals who are at least 25% Asian, Black, Hispanic or Native American) to submit pitches for a chance to receive a $15,000 investment from the Charlotte Hornets Foundation.
While social justice is a broad term, the Hornets will focus on three specific areas: economic mobility, racial equity, and voting.
Mr. Whitfield summed it up perfectly, “We are glad to use our voice to raise awareness and provide support around topics that are so important to our community. While social justice is not a new focus for our organization, we are excited about continuing to be more intentional about how we position our efforts.”
Tune in to WFNZ 610 AM and 102.5 FM for every Charlotte Hornets game live, plus pre and post game shows.
