SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes, in collaboration with Black Players for Change, are taking a stand against racism and hateful language. In honor of Juneteenth, the Quakes Foundation, the charitable arm of the club, will be selling limited edition wristbands to raise funds with all proceeds supporting Black Players for Change in efforts to end racism.
Wristbands are now available for purchase for $5.00 online by clicking here, or in person at the Epicenter at PayPal Park during Saturday’s match against the Portland Timbers at PayPal Park. Buyers will also have the option to make additional donations online in support of the cause, with the Quakes matching up to $5,000.
The black silicone wristbands read “Silence Hate. End Racism” in bold letters around the side. Players and coaches will be wearing the wristbands at Saturday’s match in support of Black Players for Change’s mission statement.
Juneteenth is a national holiday celebrated on June 19th to commemorate the emancipation of the enslaved people in the United States. The holiday originated in 1865, when news of the Emancipation Proclamation reached the coast of Galveston, Texas. It is also that year that the US Congress passed the 13th Amendment making slavery unconstitutional. Juneteenth is a day of reflection and education, as well as a reminder of the racial injustices needed to be dealt with that day.
About the Quakes Foundation
The Quakes Foundation is the San Jose Earthquakes’ charitable arm, operating as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The Quakes Foundation promotes unity through sport. We strive to improve health and fitness outcomes for local youth and combat food insecurity in our community. Through the cultivation of the game of soccer, we create and facilitate programs that produce positive impact for children and families in these areas of focus throughout the Bay Area. For more information, visit www.sjearthquakes.com/community.
About Black Players for Change:
Black Players for Change (BPC) is an independent organization consisting of over 170+ players, coaches and staff from MLS, working to bridge the racial equality gap that exists in society. BPC is committed to tackling the racial injustices that have limited Black people from having an equitable stake in the game of soccer and society. Among the many goals, the organization strives to advance the attention on human rights inequalities from protests to programs, partnerships and policies that address systemic discrimination. For more information visit www.BlackPlayersForChange.org or follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
