Black Players for Change, MLS and adidas Unite to Celebrate Juneteenth with Special Edition Pre-Match Shirt and "Generations" Campaign
Washington, D.C. – June 19, 2024 – Black Players for Change (BPC), Major League Soccer (MLS), and adidas have teamed up to commemorate Juneteenth with a powerful collaboration that honors the holiday's significance, celebrates players as agents of change, and unites the soccer community around the ongoing pursuit of equality.
At the heart of this initiative is the special edition "I AM #19" pre-match shirt, designed by adidas Licensed Sports Graphics Manager Todd Stansbury. The shirt, which will be worn by players during warm-ups for matches between June 15-19, features a bold design that acknowledges the historical significance of Juneteenth (June 19th) while also symbolizing the collective voice of athletes in advocating for social justice.
The "I AM #19" pre-match shirt is available for purchase on soccer.com, with proceeds supporting organizations dedicated to equality and social justice. Fans can also pre-order on MLSstore.com or through the MLS app (shirts will begin shipping in late July).
"This collaboration is more than just a pre-game jersey, it’s a symbol of unity, equality and a testament to the power of our collective voices,” said Allen Hopkins Jr., Executive Director of Black Players for Change. "We thank MLS, the clubs, Adidas, and everyone at the league office who worked tirelessly to make this possible. Together, we are making a statement and taking a stand for a more inclusive and equitable future."
Complementing the "I AM #19" initiative is the "Generations" campaign, a multi-platform effort that highlights the generational impact of soccer as a vehicle for empowerment and opportunity. This campaign will feature MLS players and youth athletes, emphasizing the unity and progress within the soccer community.
"BPC acknowledges that soccer can be a positive bridge between sport and life, with a mission to eradicate discrimination and promote equality on the global stage of soccer," said Dane Howard, an advisor and Designer of the BPC Brand since 2023. "The pre-game Jersey was designed to be a cohesive visual statement of solidarity to promote the equality of all races. ‘I AM #19’ is both a statement of belonging, and an invitation to belong.”
Fans are encouraged to join MLS, BPC, and adidas in celebrating Juneteenth and fostering a more inclusive environment in soccer and beyond.
About Black Players for Change
Black Players for Change is an independent organization consisting of over 170 Black MLS players, coaches, and staff members. The organization is committed to tackling systemic racism and promoting change both within and outside the sport.
About Major League Soccer
Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer -- celebrating its 29th season in 2024 -- features 30 clubs throughout the United States and Canada, including a new expansion team in San Diego that will debut in 2025. All MLS, Leagues Cup, and select MLS NEXT Pro and MLS NEXT matches can be watched through MLS Season Pass, available on the Apple TV app on Apple devices, smart TVs, streaming devices, set-top boxes, and game consoles, and the web at tv.apple.com. MLS Season Pass features the most expansive and accessible lineup of programming ever for MLS fans. For more information about MLS, visit mlssoccer.com. For more information about the Apple TV app, visit apple.com/apple-tv-app.
About adidas
adidas is a global leader in the sporting goods industry. Headquartered in Herzogenaurach/Germany, the company employs more than 59,000 people across the globe and generated sales of €22.5 billion in 2022.
About Soccer.com
Soccer.com is a premier destination for soccer enthusiasts, offering a wide range of soccer gear, apparel, and equipment. With a commitment to supporting the soccer community, Soccer.com partners with various organizations to promote the growth and development of the sport.
