US Lacrosse today issued a statement in support of the comments and actions of Mr. Jovan Miller, a professional lacrosse player with the Charlotte Hounds of Major League Lacrosse, who refused to use equipment provided by a lacrosse manufacturer that used racially offensive references in its advertising. The statement reads as follows:
US Lacrosse applauds and supports Jovan Miller’s intolerance of racism. His advocacy and courage, and that of so many others within lacrosse, reflect the culture of inclusion that is essential to our sport’s responsible development. His example of leadership has generated widespread praise from the national membership, staff and volunteer leadership of US Lacrosse.
“Our vision is that every child should have the opportunity to benefit from a positive lacrosse experience,” said Steve Stenersen, president and CEO of US Lacrosse. “Racially derogatory comments and references impede the advancement of lacrosse and have no place within our sport.”
US Lacrosse seeks to foster a national lacrosse community that encourages understanding, appreciation and acceptance of all within its membership, volunteer base and staff. Further, US Lacrosse believes that broad representation and participation add significant value to the lacrosse experience, and that the value of these experiences is enhanced by embracing underrepresented and underserved communities.
US Lacrosse has supported and led efforts to make the sport more inclusive, and that goal remains a primary area of focus within organization’s Strategic Plan.
