In a statement released on Monday evening, Saints and Pelicans owner Gayle Benson announced the formation of the Social Justice Leadership Coalition which will include Pelicans Lonzo Ball and JJ Redick and Saints linebacker Demario Davis.
I stand with them and I will rely on their leadership and direction to make sure we are making the most powerful impact we can. And I am proud to announce that these three players will join me in a newly created Social Justice Leadership Coalition, within our organization. I welcome any of our other players to join as well. Our goal will be to advocate for issues of change when and where we are able to in black and brown communities. Hopefully our work will be a model for others. They will have my full support.
Benson discussed conversations held on Monday with each of the three as tensions around the country continued to grow in response to last week’s death of George Floyd.
Ball took part in a peaceful protest in Chino Hills on Sunday along with brothers LaMelo and LiAngelo. Both Lonzo and LaMelo took to social media after the rally to continue spreading their message of support.
Davis has been as outspoken as any within the NFL on the matter including a recent appearance on NFL Network. Redick has used his podcasting platform to interview political figures in the past as well.
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