MLS, MLSPA and Black Players for Change (BPC) today announced MLS Unites to Vote, a new non-partisan initiative designed to inspire staff, players and fans to register and vote in the '20 election. Spreading the word on voting has been one of the key initiatives from the newer BPC organization. The MLS Unites to Vote platform will educate people on the voting process, encourage volunteer efforts during the election and highlight players' and teams' actions related to voting. Through the initiative, MLS will become a member of the Civic Alliance, which consists of 200-plus companies collaborating to inspire people to vote. MLS Commissioner Don Garber in a statement said, "Participation in local and national elections is one of the most important responsibilities we have as citizens. Major League Soccer and our players recognize the opportunity we have to leverage our platform to amplify the importance of voting. We hope to inspire MLS fans and the entire soccer community to educate themselves about the voting process, register to vote, and vote on Election Day." The league office as well as club facilities located in the U.S. will be closed on Nov. 3 so staffers can vote and/or decide to volunteer if they wish.
MLB ALSO TAKING ACTION: Meanwhile, MLB yesterday became the first pro sports league to join the Civic Alliance. The league also has committed to Time To Vote, a business-led initiative to help ensure employees have access to -- and information about -- early voting or vote-by-mail options.
