By acknowledging and celebrating the values we all share as Americans, it is hoped that this initiative can affect attitudes by showcasing teams who are mutually respectful and work collectively toward common goals despite their differences and diverse backgrounds. As we approach the 225th birthday of the United States of America in 2001, we are reminded of the principles on which this nation was founded. The ideals of liberty, freedom, justice and equality pepper our nation's founding documents. The founders of the United States, as written in the Declaration of Independence stated that we hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. However, throughout our nation's history, our country has been invaded by misgivings of hatred and injustice.
Hate is an unnatural aspect of humanity.
Individuals make conscious decisions to engage in hateful behavior and as a result, we have allowed ourselves to be divided by race, ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation, religion, discrimination, hate and symbols of hate. From this hatred, various forms of violence may occur against targeted groups or individuals that further divides us as Americans. This is not consistent with the spirit in which our country was founded. As a people, we must rededicate ourselves to these founding principles. In the coming basketball season, it is proposed that the basketball community take a stand against discrimination, injustice and hatred.