MLS FC Dallas

FC Dallas Launches Connect: Create: Unite Platform

Published on June 25, 2020 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
FC Dallas News Release


Frisco, TX - FC Dallas announced today the creation of the Connect | Create | Unite platform to foster education, diversity and inclusion throughout Dallas/Fort Worth and within the FC Dallas organization.

"The FC Dallas family is united in our commitment to social justice. We stand together in our efforts to create positive change and do the work to promote racial equality," said FC Dallas President Dan Hunt. "This program is designed to connect people, create opportunity and unite our community."

The program launched with Candid Conversations: Sports' Role in Healing Racial Injustice on Thursday, June 18 with FC Dallas head coach Luchi Gonzalez, defender Reggie Cannon, goalkeeper Jimmy Maurer and midfielder Fafa Picault along with Joli Robinson of the Dallas Police Department. The series offers a forum for team personnel and law enforcement officials to speak candidly about their experiences.

"I think it's great what the club is doing and it's a start for the bigger initiatives to come," said FC Dallas defender Reggie Cannon. "People of color have been systematically at a disadvantage for so long and I'm happy to do my part to try to change it."

The Connect | Create | Unite platform will unite diverse voices and perspectives throughout the DFW community by creating a series of initiatives and programs connecting FC Dallas players and staff with law enforcement officials and local leaders.

Homegrown Partner Program - the banner program of FC Dallas' Connect | Create | Unite platform will provide five Black and Minority-owned businesses with FC Dallas and North Texas SC sponsorship packages valued at $500,000. The Homegrown Partner Program will deliver unparalleled access to DFW business leaders, athletes and executives while offering marketing, entertainment and commercial growth opportunities for the beneficiaries.

FCD Diversity Dinners - regularly scheduled dinners throughout Dallas/Fort Worth featuring thought leaders who will educate guests and promote an open forum among dinner participants through thought-provoking questions and conversations.

FCD Candid Conversations - a series of livestreams with FC Dallas players, coaches and staff along with law enforcement officials that encourage candid, productive communication among diverse backgrounds. (Click here for Candid Conversations: Sports' Role in Healing Racial Injustice).

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Diversity Committee - a committee comprised of FC Dallas staff and players which will discuss topics and execute initiatives related to empathetic leadership, fostering a sense of belonging throughout the organization and ongoing inclusion.

Diversity and Inclusion Training - continuing education for FC Dallas staff and executives focused on building a diverse workforce and eliminating implicit bias.

For more information about any of these programs, please visit FCDallas.com/Unite or contact Gina Miller at GMiller@FCDallas.com or 469-365-0198.

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