Nike has released a new advertisement condemning discrimination in the sporting arena. The advertisement stars NBA player LeBron James, tennis champion Serena Williams, and musician Alicia Keys (amongst other celebrities). These stars have previously spoken out in dissent against the travel ban and Trump Presidency.
“Here within these lines, on this concrete court, this patch of turf, here you're defined by your actions, not your looks or beliefs,” begins the narrator.
Black and white shots of athletes spray painting lines to extend their “concrete court(s)”, images of Muslim track runners and African-American children playing basketball outside a church are set to a soulful piano score played by Alicia Keys.
“Equality should have no boundaries,” continues the narrator. "Opportunity should not discriminate. The ball should bounce the same for everyone. Worth should outshine colour.”
The advertisement comes following President Donald Trump’s executive order banning travellers from seven majority Muslim countries entry to the US. The ban also affects travellers who have legitimate green cards and visas.
Nike's ad also follows fellow athletic wear company Under Amour’s latest controversy. CEO Kevin Plank publicly announced his support of President Trump, saying he is a “real asset” to his country.
Plank's views lie with the majority of Americans, of whom support Trump and the travel ban.
Under Armour spokespeople NBA player Stephen Curry and prima ballerina Misty Copeland (above) ’s support of Trump.
Face Up To Racism with a season of stories and programs challenging preconceptions around race and prejudice. Tune in to watch Is Australia Racist? (airs on Sunday 26 February at 8.30pm), Date My Race (airs Monday 27 February at 8.30pm) and The Truth About Racism (airs Wednesday 1 March at 8.30pm).
