Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan announced that he is starting a fundraiser to support Atlanta's Black community and has donated $500,000 with the goal of raising $2 million.

Ryan, 35, posted a statement on Twitter and Instagram:

"Last week I made a commitment to listening and learning, and one of the messages that hit home for me was the difference between reacting to a situation and responding to a situation," Ryan wrote. "For far too long I have reacted to social injustice with empathy and silent support but failed to follow through with active support. I feel the time has come to RESPOND. For ALL of us to respond.

"I see my city hurting, which is why I'm starting a fundraiser to help improve the community for people of color in the city of Atlanta. I'm kicking it off with a $500K donation and am asking you to consider donating as well. Whether big or small, you will be joining me in making a difference.

"Over the next few weeks/months I'll be really listening to the needs of the community and working with black business leaders, sports figures, activists and local grassroots organizations to get guidance on how these donations can be most impactful."

Earlier this week, Dallas Cowboys QB Dak Prescott pledged $1 million "to improve police training and address systematic racism through education and advocacy in our country." While Prescott expressed his respect for the police, he also asked them to do better.

"I have the utmost respect for those of you with a passion for protecting and serving your communities," Prescott wrote in a statement. "When you chose to wear the badge of a police officer, you pledged to PROTECT life and property through the enforcement of our laws and regulations. How can you claim to uphold the law when those within your ranks don't abide by it? You need to hold your own accountable. Each of you are as guilty as the men who stood beside Derek Chauvin if you do not stand up against the systemic racism plaguing our police forces nationwide. TAKE ACTION!"