Although they are rarely recognized, female athletes are exhibiting their leadership in this historical moment. The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) have partnered to create The Justice Movement and the Social Justice Council to advance to racial and social justice.  

In fact the WNBA has dediciated its 2020 Season to social justice by honoring the Black Lives Matter Movement and the #SayHerName campaign. 

According to USA Today, WNBA has a long history of standing up for racial and social justice issues.  

The efforts of WNBA athletes intensified this summer when Sen. Kelly Loeffler (R-GA), owner of the Atlanta Dream, expressed her opposition to the efforts of players to honor the Black Lives Matter Movement. In her letter to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert and her later appearance on Fox News, Leoffler contended that Black Lives Matter was a threat to the country.  

Many of the WNBA athletes responded swiftly and assertively to Leoffler’s assertions.  They spoke up and spoke out, condemning Loeffler for her actions and calling upon the league to do more to advance racial and social justice. 

Because of the leadership of these courageous female athletes, the WNBA and its players will work together to reinforce their commitment to drive impactful, measurable and meaningful change.