Black Players For Change

THE SEEDS WE PLANT. THE FLOWERS WE SHARE. This weekend, Major League Soccer and Black Players For Change celebrate Juneteenth—the historic date commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African-Americans in the US and the third anniversary of BPC. For 2023, MLS and BPC collaborated with artist Gianni Lee and world-renowned photographer and founder of Charcoal Pitch F.C. , Mel D. Cole, to create 1 of 1 Juneteenth-inspired jersey for every club along with a commemorative patch. All 29 jerseys will be signed by players on their respective clubs and auctioned off, with funds going to organizations that support Black communities in each club’s market. Clubs also have the option to sell the unique number set and patch in their team store this weekend, with the proceeds going to Black Players For Change. MLS continues to support the efforts of Black Players for Change to use their voices and their platforms as players to make meaningful and sustainable change. https://lnkd.in/gCKQ4x-Y #TogetherThereWillBeChange ✊🏻✊🏼✊🏽✊🏾✊🏿

Black Players for Change (BPC) made significant strides in a advocacy efforts during their visit to Washington D.C. on September 26-27. Executive Director Allen Hopkins Jr. along with Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP, spearheaded the meetings with key congressional staff members from both the Democratic and Republican parties in both the House of Representatives and Senate. In all, BPC had 12 extremely productive meetings in only two days on the Hill. This bipartisan approach and engagement demonstrates BPC's capacity for and commitment to building bridges and finding common ground for the betterment of Black athletes and their communities. https://lnkd.in/gcm2wJ64

Exercise your right to vote! This exclusive "Training Table" will explain the importance of voting, how to register, and how to establish a voting plan. Join Beth Lynk, Executive Director of When We All Vote along with the Players Coalition, and special guest Justin Morrow. TODAY (9/16 at 4pm Pacific Time) REGISTER FOR THE ZOOM: https://lnkd.in/dVRPP_gq

Black Players For Change (BPC) is proud to announce that Executive Director Allen Hopkins Jr., has been appointed to Brentford Football Club's Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Advisory Board. Allen will serve a two-year term, contributing his valuable insights and expertise to further advance the club's groundbreaking EDI efforts. Allen Hopkins Jr. expressed his enthusiasm for this new role: “I am honored to join Brentford FC's EDI Advisory Board and contribute to their ongoing efforts to create a truly inclusive football community. I believe that sports have the power to break down barriers and unite people from all walks of life, and I'm excited to work alongside an amazing club to further this important mission." Brentford FC has established itself as a trailblazer in promoting EDI within the English Premier League. The club's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all is evident in its recent accolades: • 2024 Football Business Awards: The club received an impressive five nominations, recognizing the outstanding achievements of its EDI program throughout the 2023/24 season. • Premier League Award: In January 2023, Brentford FC's equality initiatives were honored with a prestigious award from the Premier League. • EFL Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Code of Practice: In March 2021, the club was recognized for its adherence to the EFL's comprehensive Code of Practice, highlighting its dedication to promoting equality and diversity at all levels. Consisting of 11 experts with vast experience in EDI, the group will meet with the club twice during the season. The group will be chaired by Brentford non-executive director, Preeti Shetty who will report back to the club’s board. The group will provide specialist advice on EDI and offer the club a route to consult with people from different communities. Members will also monitor and evaluate Brentford’s progress in EDI. Preeti Shetty, chair of the EDI advisory board and Brentford non-executive director said: “We’re looking forward to meeting the EDI advisory group. Collectively they bring a wealth of experience and knowledge in EDI and this can only help us support and elevate our work. We think they will provide an important sounding board for our ideas and give us expert advice, input and accountability in making progress in EDI.” Black Players for Change applauds Brentford FC's unwavering commitment to EDI and congratulates Allen Hopkins Jr. on his appointment. We are confident that his passion and dedication will help the club achieve even greater success in fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone involved in the beautiful game. https://lnkd.in/gbHzHCQz

The 2024 MLS All-Star Game in Columbus, Ohio, was more than just a thrilling exhibition of soccer talent; it was a celebration of the unsung heroes who make our communities thrive. The Hometown Heroes Showcase, a cornerstone of the event, honored 5 amazing organizations and individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to service and leadership in their respective fields. The Hometown Heroes Showcase was a moving testament to the power of purpose-driven people making extraordinary differences. As Executive Director Allen Hopkins Jr. aptly put it, "These heroes remind us that true greatness lies not in individual achievements, but in the collective effort to uplift our communities and create a brighter future for all." 🎥: Heraldo Creative Studio Director: Stephen Heraldo Producer: Allen Hopkins Jr. DP + Editor: Brandon Stubbs PA + BTS: Isaac Williams Thank you to the MLS Team: Jan Greenberg Mirman, Meridith Hannan, Hugo Nirio Hernandez, and Sola Winley (he/him/his) Read more: https://lnkd.in/gxNmaih4

🌟 Exciting News from US Soccer! 🌟 Don't miss out on the opportunity to advance your coaching career with the U.S. Soccer B Course specially designed for active players! The application window is open until August 16, 2024. Apply for the course in two simple steps: 1️⃣ Create a profile on the Learning Center website, upload necessary documentation, and submit your application. 2️⃣ If you already have a profile, access the direct link and proceed with the application process. Key Dates: 📅 Aug. 1-16: Application Window 📅 Aug. 28-Sept. 11: Game Analysis 📅 Sept. 16-30: Virtual Interviews 📅 Oct. 14 (week): Course Invitations Eligibility: - Active Head Coach/Assistant Coach of a professional team at MLS/NWSL - Active Head Coach of a professional team at USL - Current U.S. Youth National Team Head Coach or higher Successful candidates can apply for financial support via BPC's Black Talent Fund. For inquiries, reach out to info@blackplayersforchange.org. Seize this opportunity to grow and develop professionally! Direct Application Link: [Click Here](https://lnkd.in/gV2GEXRg)

As we quickly approach the end of the second transfer window of the 2024 MLS season, I am proud to report that after the 2023 season which saw several player-on-player discriminatory incidents, there have been ZERO such incidents at the MLS first-team level in 2024. Thanks to the pivotal role of Black Players for Change, significant progress has been made in shaping a more inclusive and respectful environment within the league. The Intercultural Awareness training, spearheaded by Black Players for Change and Major League Soccer, aims to foster a culture of respect and understanding among players and staff from 79 different nations within MLS. By introducing Competitive Triggers and Restorative Practices, the program enhances the On-Field Anti-Discrimination Policy. Every MLS team has embraced the work with the "Playing As One – We Commit Poster," symbolizing individual commitments to unity and respect. These posters serve as a powerful tool for personal accountability and are prominently displayed across MLS training facilities, offices, locker rooms, and meal areas. Grateful to be part of this transformative journey, there's still more progress to make, and work to do, but the momentum is undeniable. Excited and prepared for the road ahead!

Big week in Columbus for All-Star Game. You don't want to miss the "heart & soul" of MLS on display. Come join Black Players for Change, Commissioner Garber, MLS executives, the Haslams with special musical guest Wanmor as we celebrate the Hometown Heroes that are making ALL the difference in Columbus. Read more and RSVP below. https://lnkd.in/g28gMSzD https://lnkd.in/gQehX9WR

The latest offering from the Black Players for Change Black Talent Fund. Successful candidates will receive a STIPEND toward course costs provided by BPC Black Talent Fund. For more information please see below OR email, contact@blackplayersforchange.org. Course Information Link: Talent Scout Course Fall 2024 https://lnkd.in/gQPQvWj4 Application Window: July 10 @ 12:00 PM CT – July 23, 2024 @ 5:00 PM CT The purpose of the Talent Scout Course is to help youth scouts learn the process of identification, examination and monitoring of potential (top) talented players. Candidates will acquire or further develop the competencies (knowledge, skills, attitude) and personal traits necessary to work as a Talent Scout Overview: The overall objective of the Talent Scout License Course is to enable candidates to acquire and further develop the competencies (knowledge, skills, attitude and personal traits) necessary to work as a youth Scout. Course Fee: $3500 (includes tuition, housing & meals). Hotel rooms (double) will be booked by U.S. Soccer. The cost of the course is $3500. If you are selected to take part in this course, you will be required to submit 50% of the course fee at the time of registration ($1750). The remaining 50% ($1750) is required 10 days prior to the first course meeting. Payment must be submitted via credit card. Failure to submit a second payment will result in a forfeiture of a roster spot. Eligibility & Environment *Candidate must hold a minimum of a U.S. Soccer B license for at least 12 months OR hold a U.S. Soccer A License *Currently scouting within a youth scouting 11vs.11 environment (U13 through U21) in a U.S. based competition (applicants that have access to a internship in a 11vs.11 environment will also be considered) *Candidate must be able to attend all meetings (in-person and virtual) Course Structure *Virtual Meetings: Approx. 90 mins each *Two (2) In-Person Meetings Expectations: Student must be fully prepared to complete all coursework on time and be engaged during meetings. Attend opening course webinar on August 15, 2024. Course Begins: August 15 (virtually) In-Person Meeting #1 - Kansas City, KS September 6-9, 2024 Begins 10 a.m. local time; ends 12 p.m. local time Virtual Meetings VM #1 September 19, 12-1:30pm CT VM #2 September 26, 12-1:30pm CT VM #3 October 3, 12-1:30pm CT VM #4 October 10, 12-1:30pm CT VM #5 October 17, 12-1:30pm CT Closing Webinar: November 7th In-Person Meeting #2 - Austin, TX October 24-27, 2024 Begins 10 a.m. local time; ends 12 p.m. local time Course Ends: November, 2024

The MLS All-Star Hometown Hero Showcase presented by RBC Wealth Management and in partnership with Black Players For Change recognizes organizations & their leaders committed to serving the Columbus community. This week we’re honored to spotlight Dorothy Hassan for their impactful work with Our Helpers. “It is incredibly humbling to be recognized by MLS as a hometown hero for the work that Our Helpers is doing to help New American families improve their lives and transition from simply surviving to thriving. I am honored that the work we are doing is being valued and celebrated in a way that surpasses my wildest dreams!” Learn more about the #HometownHeroes at MLShometownheroes.com #MLSAllStar