# Major League Soccer Joins Forces with Adidas and Black Players for Change

- Link: https://exclusiveaccess.net/major-league-soccer-joins-forces-with-adidas-and-black-players-for-change/
- Published: 2024-06-17T09:36:50-04:00
- Author: EAN

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MLS is collaborating with BPC and adidas to introduce a special edition pre-match“
I AM #19” shirt thatacknowledges the significance of Juneteenth, celebrates all 
players as agents of change, and unites around the work yet to be done. The pre-
match shirt, designed by adidas Licensed Sports Graphics Manager Todd Stansbury,
will be worn by players during pre-match warm-ups prior to MLS matches played between
June 15 – June 19.

“Juneteenth is a day to honor the power and promise of the human spirit,” said Sola
Winley, Executive Vice President, Chief Engagement and Inclusion Officer of Major
League Soccer. “MLS is a community of players from 79 countries, who will join together
to amplify in unison the enduring message of freedom and change. A heartfelt thank
you to our friends at Black Players for Change, and our incredibly supportive partners
at adidas for celebrating the beauty in all.”

In addition to the “I AM #19” tops, MLS, BPC and adidas are releasing a new “Generations”
campaign, which kicks off with a photoshoot featuring FC Cincinnati and U.S. Men’s
National Team defender Miles Robinson. A short film will also be released in the
coming days. The “Generations” campaign relays the message that for generations,
the game and the ball have universally represented courage, resilience, and a pathway
to opportunity and freedom. Thecampaign will highlight the generational connection
between first team professionals and Academy players, emphasizing unity, empowerment,
and progress within the soccer community.

“It is so important to recognize the ongoing work that Black Players for Change 
has done and will continue to do for the African American community”, said FC Cincinnati’s
Miles Robinson. “MLS, adidas and BPC have provided a platformto celebrate, honor,
and educate the league and our fans about African American history with this year’s
Juneteenth pre-match tops. It is key to use these efforts as steppingstones to a
brighter, more just future for all,” added Robinson.

“Juneteenth holds profound significance in the history and culture of our community,
and the 2024 pre-match tops symbolize Black Players for Change’s ongoing commitment
to honor the past while inspiring future generations,” says Allen Hopkins Jr., Executive
Director, Black Players for Change. “Through this collaboration and partnership 
with Major League Soccer and Adidas, the pre-match tops serve as a powerful reminder
of our shared journey and the progress we continue to strive for within the sport
and beyond. They embody the principles of equality and connectedness, emphasizing
that when we stand together, we are stronger and more unified in our pursuit of 
advancement and equality.”

Fans are encouraged to join the celebration and show their support by wearing the
special “I AM #19” pre-match shirt. MLS will also feature educational content and
storytelling around Juneteenth across its digital and social media platforms, ensuring
that the day is highlighted throughout the league.

For more information on the Juneteenth initiative please visit www.MLSsoccer.com.
The “I AM #19” pre-match tops can be purchased at MLSstore.com and at stadium retail
locations. A portion of the proceeds will be going to support initiatives and organizations
focused on racial equity and social justice.