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Shumpert pledges to match steals with donations to improve police-community relations

David Richard / USA TODAY Sports

Becoming a father has changed Iman Shumpert's view of the world, and he wants to make it a better place for his child.

The Cleveland Cavaliers shooting guard shared a photo of his infant daughter on Instagram Wednesday, Iman Tayla Shumpert Jr., saying he "can't explain" the dynamic between police and civilians to her, because while cops are supposed to protect African Americans (and all people), they instead instill fear in them.

Related: NBA players decry shooting death of Terence Crutcher

Take a good look at my daughter Iman Tayla Shumpert Jr. The moment she was born was the day I saw the world a lot different. All day I wonder how can I raise her the right way and teach her the right lessons. I can't explain to her what's going on these days between the badge and the people. The badge was made to protect us, not scare us. #stealthefear #steal🔓fear #weprayforpeace For each steal I’m going to donate money and time towards a foundation striding to improve the struggle between the badge and the citizen. I challenge all sponsors and athletes to match these proceeds to contribute to the cause helping families affected by all the killings leaving families and communities traumatized. As big as an awareness Kap has raised by taking a knee and the bravery it took for so many to follow I also understand those that fought for that flag have nothing to do with whats going on in our society today and I no long believe taking a knee is the answer. This news makes me sick and I am challenging myself to make a difference! #stealthefear #steal🔓fear #weprayforpeace

A photo posted by Iman Shumpert (@imanshumpert) on

As part of a new campaign called "Steal the Fear," Shumpert pledged that for every steal he records this upcoming season, he'll donate money and time to a foundation that aims to improve police-community relations.

He has a career average of 1.3 steals per game.

The 26-year-old NBA champion also noted that while he commends Colin Kaepernick for his anthem protests to raise awareness, he no longer believes that will solve the problem.

Shump declared he wants to make a real difference and reached out to the San Francisco 49ers quarterback to join him.

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