July 7 is National Black Women in Sports Day. For more information on events and initiatives, visit blackwomeninsports.com.
The contributions of Black women in the dynamic and ever-evolving world of sports have often been the driving force behind progress and excellence. National Black Women in Sports Day, celebrated annually on July 7, shines a much-needed spotlight on these trailblazers, honoring their achievements and advocating for increased representation and equity within the industry.
Spearheaded by attorney Jai Thomas, Esq., and her organization Diverse Representation, this day celebrates Black women’s history, progress, and promising future in sports.
Jai Thomas: This year has illuminated that there are still blind spots when it comes to the treatment and coverage of Black women in the sports industry,” said Thomas. “National Black Women in Sports Day aims to bring these unique challenges and experiences to the forefront. We aim to foster greater representation and more meaningful conversations surrounding Black women in the industry.
Diverse Representation has been a transformative presence founded to increase the hiring and visibility of Black agents, attorneys, managers, publicists, and financial advisors in sports and entertainment. Their initiatives, such as the 2023 Black Ownership in Sports Symposium in Atlanta, have opened doors for underrepresented groups and showcased successful individuals who inspire future generations.
On Sunday, July 7, Diverse Representation will host its second annual Black Women in Sports Day, which celebrates the achievements of Black women in all facets of the sports industry, raises awareness, and highlights the power of diverse representation. The social media hashtag #blackwomeninsports highlights the accomplishments and stories of Black women in the sports industry.
This campaign invites fans, executives, and new audiences to celebrate these remarkable women. Festivities will honor influential figures such as Dominique Dawes and Rosalind Brewer, who joined the ownership group of the Atlanta Falcons; Swin Cash, promoted to SVP of Basketball Operations for the New Orleans Pelicans; and Portia Archer, the newly appointed CEO of the WTA.
Black Women in Sports Day is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the athletes who inspire us. As we cheer on stars like Sha’Carri Richardson, Gabby Thomas, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Simone Biles, and Simone Manuel at the Paris Olympics, we acknowledge the trailblazing paths they forge and the barriers they break. For sports business executives, this day reminds them of the importance of diversity and inclusion at all levels of the industry.
“Black women in the sports industry are so impactful. There are so many trailblazers in the industry who have been through so much for the next generation,” said Saria Parker, Manager of Diversity & Inclusion at NASCAR. Brittany McCallum, Vice President of Basketball Marketing at KLUTCH Sports Group and the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), concurs: “The impact of Black women in the sports industry cannot be overstated. Our presence has a transformative effect on multiple levels; the result extends far beyond athletics.”
Join Diverse Representation on July 7 to celebrate Black women’s past, present, and future in sports. For more information on events and initiatives, visit blackwomeninsports.com.
