Cam Newton launches initiative to inspire diversity in children

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton launched a new initiative Tuesday night that focuses on young people.

The Un1ted as 1 program teaches teamwork and acceptance and inspires change across Charlotte.

Newton spoke about the program, which will start in January that teaches middle-school students to embrace and experience diversity, something he didn't do as a child.

“The first time I interacted with another race was college and that’s honest,” Newton said.

There will be three days of learning for 60 children.

“A lot of what we see and hear is foreign to our ears, so we assume it’s negative rather than hearing. This is where that point of view came from,” Newton said.

Students from three Charlotte-Mecklenburg middle schools -- Community House, Coulwood and Piedmont IB -- will participate and so will the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Charter.

Newton hopes after the pilot program, Un1ted as 1 will expand in the Carolinas.

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