(TIML NEWS) The three major sports franchises in Tampa Bay, FL have teamed up to dedicate funds towards the removal of a Confederate statue in front of a city courthouse in wake of the events in Charlottesville, VA. News of the collaboration came via a tweet from the city’s hockey team, the Tampa Bay Lightning. The joint statement read:

“Recognizing that this monument does not reflect the values of our community, in collaboration with the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce, our organizations have dedicated funds to assist in moving the statue from the public space in front of the courthouse,” the statement said. “Now more than ever before, we must stand united and committed to diversity and inclusion as we all attempt to heal from the tragedy in Charlottesville. Slow progress is better than no progress😎👌🏾.