Basketball players have been some of the most active and outspoken athletes in regards to social justice initiatives and the fight for equality. Yesterday these individuals were recognized for their efforts.
The NAACP announced that the Warriors’ Steph Curry and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) were the recipients of their Jackie Robinson Sports Award.
The award honors athletes for their success and their commitment to social justice, civil rights and their communities.
“This award is truly a humbling and honoring experience,” said Curry through a team spokesman. “It kind of came by surprise in terms of when you do things in the community and speak on things you believe, it’s about the collective effort, not just myself but everybody who is around me in terms of accountability to change.”
Curry has been active in efforts to bring change. Whether it’s taking on the former president, helping Howard University’s golf team, or hosting a Q&A with Dr. Fauci during the start of the pandemic last March, Curry is a familiar face in the fight for justice and equality.
But to him, it’s not done for money or press. He does it because that’s who he is and what he believes in.
“You don’t really do it for the acknowledgment, it’s more so about the work that you’re doing, that this is a great opportunity to continue to speak on things that are important and honor the legacy of Jackie Robinson and what he stood for and the change he was able to create and the barriers he was able to break and to continue these conversations,” added Curry. “So I’m appreciative of the acknowledgment, the honor and if it gives more inspiration and energy to keep changing things in terms of what needs to happen for the Black community across the country then I’m all about it.”
Joining Curry on the NAACP Image Awards (virtual) stage will be the WNBPA. As a collective group, these athletes have been on the frontlines across the country, fighting for causes such as Black Lives Matter, voting rights, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
“I am so proud of the WNBA players for this well-deserved recognition of their continued activism and advocacy for social justice and equality,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert in a statement. “Their platforms are bigger than basketball, and they are amazing role models for the next generation of athletes and leaders. The WNBA Social Justice Council continues their important work and you can definitely ‘Count’ on more to come from the players.”
WNBA players have taken to the streets to organize and support these causes. Some left the game to pursue fights they believe in and as a group, they took the fight to former senator and Atlanta Dream owner Kelly Loeffler, forcing her to sell the team to a group that includes former WNBA champion Renee Montgomery.
“I love what the WNBA players have done. They’ve really taken the lead with creativity and unity in a lot of important causes, political causes but social injustice issues,” said Warriors’ coach Steve Kerr. “They’ve made their voices heard. They’ve done it very creatively and powerfully.”
The Awards take place next week virtually. Keep up the fight!
