The Toronto Raptors are taking a stand against hate anywhere and everywhere, using the power of sport to unite people.
In an official release from MLSE , the Toronto Maple Leafs Alumni and Raptors announced that they will travel to London, Ontario in October in the wake of the hate crime in June that devastated the community and the country.
Raptors head coach Nick Nurse narrated a video shared to the team's official Twitter account, announcing that they will travel to London on Saturday, Oct. 2 to hold their annual open practice at Budweiser Gardens.
The beauty of sport is its ability to unite and bring people together.
— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) September 17, 2021
October 2nd, 2021
London, ON
Details: https://t.co/o82E9KdQRl pic.twitter.com/ZgeorhARrN
"Almost three months ago, the Muslim community were victims of a terrorist attack in London, Ontario," Nurse began.
He continued, adding that "the Muslim community has endured trauma, conflict, and despair, as they try to find the means to rebuild and move forward. The beauty of sport is its ability to unite and bring people together.
"On Oct. 2, the Toronto Raptors will travel to London to team up with the Forest City hoping to lend a hand in bringing this community together, with a particular focus on re-energizing the city's youth and reminding them that they all are valued, they have purpose, and they are welcome members of Raptors Nation, a community of people who believe that a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion off the court is as important as our play on it."
Tickets to the Toronto Raptors Open Practice will be available on Thursday, Sept. 23 at 10:00 a.m. ET at budweisergardens.com , but capacity will be limited to 1,000 people due to current health and safety protocols. Anyone entering the venue will be required to show full proof of vaccination.
Tickets will require a minimum $20 donation that will go towards MLSE Foundation's Change the Game campaign, which aims to build awareness and help eliminate barriers facing thousands of youth, giving them more equitable opportunities to recognize and reach their potential.
Stick with NBA.com for more information surrounding the upcoming events.
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