In celebration of Black History Month this February, our Huskies varsity community opens up to share their thoughts on what Black History Month means to them and to highlight Black athletes who have been inspirations and impacted their lives.
"To me, Black History Month means remembering and paying homage to our important Black heroes. Both men and women who made historic imprints and inspiring influence of our race and culture as we continue to strive for change." Caldre C.
"In honor of Black History Month, Huskies Women's Soccer would love to share two quotes by renowned Black minds that encapsulate the essence of who we are:
"Never be limited by other people's limited imaginations" — Dr. Mae Jemison, first African-American female astronaut. Our program has lived by this mantra in recent years, daring to imagine ourselves reaching heights that no one ever expected of us!
"My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together" — Desmond Tutu. Our program strives to espouse the virtues of equality and equity for all.
Despite our diversity, we are one! Our student-athletes are a group of sisters with a unified goal of excellence in all spheres of life." Les F. Head Coach
"An athlete that has inspired me is Muhammad Ali. I admire him because his social message was Black pride and resistance to white domination. He pushed racial boundaries by embracing Black pride and using his platform to speak about civil rights in a time where it was dangerous to do so." Willam D.H.
"To me Black History Month is a month of appreciation for the Black community. This month lets people of different nationalities and cultures understand the struggles through time that Black peoples when through. This month also helps uplift the Black community, and gives support to others upcoming and striving for a better future.
A professional athlete that has really stood out in the Black community over the last couple of years, proving to us that when you strive for greatness anything is possible, is Lebron James. Lebron James grew up in a rough American area, with a low income and a single mother. However, that did not stop Lebron! He was able to get him and his mother out the projects and start a better life from themselves. Lebron has proven over and over again that he has the ability to impact people for the good. Hosting events, giving back to the community, covering college tuitions, and being a vocal lead in the Black Lives Matter movement. He is my role model for Black History Month." Julian H.
For a culture that isn't broadcasted in our education systems as much as it should be, Black History Month educates the uneducated on the hardships that the Black culture has faced and reminds people everywhere just how much strength the entire black culture possesses. - Antaya T.
"Black history means independence. It means liberation, power, strength, pain and courage and can be found all throughout our history. It means beating the odds again and again. Standing for all men women and children of colour. It means respecting and honouring those who came before me and paved the way for a Black man like myself. It means continuing the fight for justice, equality and human rights so my children can grow up in a better world.
There are many athletes that have had an impact on myself, sports and the world as a whole. Jessie Owens, Jackie Robinson, Muhammad Ali etc.... But to me a modern day hero is Lebron James. He has an enormous social media presence, is a worldwide figure and a frequent outspoken advocate for social justice. His I-Promise school which he started and helped fund has been an amazing outlet and opportunity for underprivileged youths in Akron, Ohio. It's a great example of how an athlete can change the lives of people in his area and in the forgotten about communities in the world. I believe he will continue to be a huge contributor to the fight for Black social rights and equality moving forward. I believe we will look back and remember Lebron James for what he did off the court just as familiarly as what he did on the court." Adam C.
"Black History Month to me means an added focus on elevating and highlighting members of the Black community - their struggles, their achievements, and their perseverance. Racism today doesn't always look obvious. Promoting and encouraging awareness and appreciation for BHM and the Black community is one important step in combating the systemic racism that people who have never had to experience it, may not even fully recognize exists within themselves." Daphne C. Head Coach
"Black History Monthcis the understanding of the many, many feats of our culture has achieved. The inventions that we use every day, the accomplishments over time, remembering the work that was done in the past to aid the future generation. It reminds me that this should really be an all-year, decade, even century of remembrance. Black History Month is essential to continue to help guide not only our future generation, but also myself as it inspires to look forward and strive for excellence in our community, our culture." - Omari W. Head Coach
"Great things come from hard work and perseverance, no excuses. To me, that equals - Kobe Bryant. Kobe has always been my inspiration growing up and will forever be in my heart. The Mamba mentality has impacted my life forever. His legend will never die." Matt B. "Life's most persistent and urgent question is, what are you doing for others?"- Martin Luther King, I believe this statement was used by an iconic individual who lead a movement for not only Black people, but the human race. Today, we still should strive to think of others, especially during these difficult times. In life, school, sports, our basic everyday living, this quote helps reflect on how to make this world a better place." – John W. Head Coach
