The Memphis Grizzlies have announced that they will debut a new alternate “MLK50 Pride” uniform in the 2016-17 season in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Next April marks the 50th anniversary of the civil rights movement leader's assassination.

Grizzlies President of Business Operations, Jason Wexler, spoke about the significance of these uniforms in the team's official release:

“We’re deeply honored to work with our longstanding partners at the National Civil Rights Museum to help them launch the commemorations building towards the 50th anniversary of Dr. King’s assassination. The MLK50 Pride uniform to be worn for the first time on January 15th during our annual weekend Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration is a means of both furthering our partnership with the National Civil Rights Museum and creating awareness of the Museum’s vital message of social and economic justice in our city, our nation and the world.”

The new jerseys were unveiled as part of “A Bridge of Opportunity” conversation at the National Civil Rights Museum Wednesday night. Both coach David Fizdale and veteran Vince Carter attended the event. Fizdale spoke about his experiences with social injustice as well as the recent protests from athletes, including Colin Kapernick.

“It's bigger than a basketball game. It's bigger than a football game. It's about people's rights, ” Fizdale said.” He's not hurting anybody. He's not violent. He's quietly protesting for equal rights.”

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Carter also spoke on the importance of education for young people.

“I chose to graduate for the bigger picture,” Carter said. “In basketball, we entertain but we're also on this platform to help kids understand that there is a Plan B. If you don't make it in the pros, then what? Are you willing to persevere?”

Memphis will debut the uniforms on January 15 for their Martin Luther King Jr. celebration game.