Statement Of Brady President Paul Helmke On New Nike Kobe Bryant Ad Campaign

Jan 30, 2010

Washington, DC – Paul Helmke, President of the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, issued the following statement about new print ads for Nike featuring NBA celebrity Kobe Bryant:

"Just a few days ago, the National Basketball Association suspended two players for the season for irresponsible behavior with firearms. Now, Kobe Bryant and Nike demonstrate an irresponsible, sophomoric attitude about guns.

"While I know Nike won't get suspended for the season by the NBA, I hope the league will let them know that this advertisement is both off message and badly timed. We need to drop the gun glorification in pro basketball, and that especially applies to million dollar ad campaigns."

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As the nation's largest, non-partisan, grassroots organization leading the fight to prevent gun violence, the Brady Campaign, with its dedicated network of Million Mom March Chapters, works to enact and enforce sensible gun laws, regulations and public policies. The Brady Campaign is devoted to creating an America free from gun violence, where all Americans are safe at home, at school, at work, and in our communities.

For continuing insight and comment on the gun issue, read Paul Helmke's blog at www.bradycampaign.org/blog/. Visit the Brady Campaign website at www.bradycampaign.org.