Vaunda Micheaux Nelson's book Juneteenth traces the history of the day that the official announcement of the end of slavery was made in Galveston, Texas. The Conscious Kid shared the author's reading of her book so others could reflect on the date and the history surrounding it.
That history still reverberates through our country today, and a group of MLS players chose June 19th as an appropriate moment to announce the formation of the MLS Black Players Coalition. Philadelphia Union defender Ray Gaddis is on the board of the BPC along with former Union striker CJ Sapong. Union defender Mark McKenzie and over 70 other black players are also involved and shared the group's announcement.
The Philadelphia Union family is taking this day to reflect on the role racism has played in our country's history and the effect it continues to have on society today. We are committed to take immediate and future steps to combat racism in soccer and across the United States.
