P.K. Subban donates $50K to George Floyd’s daughter, says NHL matched

P.K. Subban speaks to the media. (Kathy Willens/AP)

The abhorrent and unjust killing of George Floyd has sparked protests across the United States and beyond, stretching all the way to Europe, where thousands have similarly taken to the streets.

It’s spurred dialogue in the sports world too, as many have been moved to speak out against racial injustice. On Wednesday, P.K. Subban added his voice to those condemning police brutality against the Black community — but the New Jersey Devils star took his message a step further, his statement coming alongside a significant donation to George Floyd’s young daughter, Gianna.

“What does ‘Change the Game’ mean? ‘Change the Game’ means change the narrative — the narrative has been the same: No justice,” Subban said in a video posted to Twitter. “There needs to be justice. Justice has to happen, change needs to come. But we need everyone — we need everyone and all people to look at our lives, and see [how] we can help that change and do our part. I’m committed to that, I’m committed to that through and through.

“I want to draw my attention to Gianna, George Floyd’s six-year-old daughter. I know that she has a GoFundMe page. This morning I donated $50,000 to her GoFundMe page. I reached out to the NHL and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, and they have matched $50,000. So I just want to reach out to everybody, anyone who can donate, please … donate if you can.”

The GoFundMe page for Gianna Floyd has reached more than $800,000 in total donations as of Wednesday afternoon, with more than 25,000 donors contributing. Subban’s $50,000 donation is listed as the biggest contribution to the fund yet, with other athletes like Saquon Barkley and John Wall donating as well.

“Because of her father’s tragic murder due to police brutality, Gianna will now go through life without her dad,” the GoFundMe page reads. “In addition, their family has lost their provider, and will no doubt suffer financial hardship after this tragic loss.

“As a community, we want to come together in this time of need and assist Gianna’s mother, Roxie Washington, by donating whatever we can to help provide mental and grief counseling for George Floyd’s youngest child, lodging and travel for all court proceedings, and to assist Roxie (Gianna’s mother) in providing for their child’s continued well-being and education.”

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