Kevin-Prince Boateng and PUMA Create Black Lives Matter ULTRA Boots
Kevin-Prince Boateng has continued to use his platform to speak out against racism and advocate for equality, drawing on his own experiences of discrimination both on and off the football pitch.
The PUMA athlete worked with PUMA on a special pair of “Black Lives Matter” ULTRA football boots as part of the brand’s ongoing #REFORM initiative.
Boateng approached PUMA about creating the special-edition boots and discussing ways football and wider society could play a role in driving social change.
Kevin-Prince Boateng’s Fight Against Racism
Boateng has been outspoken about his experiences with racism throughout his football career. His involvement in the project reflects his continued efforts to challenge discrimination and promote greater equality in sport.
The special ULTRA boots were created as a statement rather than a conventional football product.
The boots were not made for sale.
What Is the PUMA #REFORM Initiative?
PUMA launched its #REFORM initiative in October 2018 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of American track-and-field athlete Tommie Smith’s iconic silent protest at the 1968 Olympic Games.
The initiative was created around the idea of coming together to take a stand for universal equality and encourage social change.
#REFORM focuses on three key areas:
- Racial discrimination
- LGBTQ+ discrimination
- Gender discrimination
Through partnerships with communities, activists and organisations around the world, PUMA’s initiative aims to support efforts addressing discrimination and inequality.
The Black Lives Matter Movement
The phrase “Black Lives Matter” became a global rallying cry for racial justice, particularly following the 2013 acquittal of George Zimmerman in the killing of Trayvon Martin.
Activists Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors and Ayọ Tometi helped establish the Black Lives Matter movement and popularised the hashtag #BlackLivesMatter on social media.
The movement grew significantly in subsequent years, becoming an international force in conversations around racial injustice, police violence and equality.
Kevin-Prince Boateng and PUMA’s Message
The collaboration between Boateng and PUMA used football and sport as a platform to address discrimination and promote equality.
Rather than creating a boot intended for commercial release, the Black Lives Matter ULTRA served as a visual statement connected to Boateng’s personal experiences and PUMA’s #REFORM campaign.
For more information about PUMA’s #REFORM initiative, visit PUMA #REFORM.
PUMA on Amazon
If you’re looking for PUMA footwear or apparel, Amazon carries a selection of products from the brand. Prices, colours, sizes and availability can vary, so check the current listing for the latest information.
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