Here’s Why the WNBA Are Trailblazers in the Fight for Racial Equality

The WNBA has proven their assertiveness on and off the court as their responses to racial discrimination help pave the way for equality.

In recent weeks, the world has seen a growing push for Black liberation from many high profile athletes. The women of the WNBA are no exception. Teams from across the league have risen to be outspoken advocates of a common cause, such as when Vegas Aces player Angel McCoughtry proposed allowing players to wear the names of police violence victims on their jerseys. It’s a proposal the NBA has deferred previously but is now exploring.

Recently, the Mystics Natasha Cloud announced she would be taking a seat on the 2020 season to devote time to the fight for justice. In an online message, she called for impactful change, urging viewers to “not be distracted by the crumbs” of actions like “Taking down statues of racist slave owners.” Instead, she urged them to focus energy on “actual change”- primarily social reform to tackle systematic oppression.

The growing call for social justice is deeprooted for many women of the league. Back in 2016, every player of Indiana Fever took a knee during the national anthem to protest against racialized police brutality. Now, there are plans for the WBNA to join the NBA in painting “Black Lives Matter” on the courts of Disney World Resort in Orlando.

These are just some of the ways these women have been showing their support for racial equality. We can all follow in their footsteps by using our voices to help usher in change for good.