The WNBA continues to be known for, among many things, being one of the most progressive sports leagues that exist today. This was once again shown when the New York Liberty participated in New York’s annual LGBT Pride March which took place this past Sunday.
When it was announced that the Liberty would have a float in the march, they became the first professional sports team to have a parade in said event. The WNBA and NBA also, as leagues, began participating in the parade and returned to the parade this year.
I think everybody is jumping on board and open to the mentality of, it’s your life, that’s what you want to do, I’m going to support you.
–Shavonte Zellous per the AP
We’ve been the first in a lot of the social justice and equality areas and standing up and speaking out, and we invite all the other leagues and sports teams to participate and follow.
–Liberty president Isiah Thomas per AP
Among the Liberty players that took part included Rebecca Allen, Kiah Stokes, Brittany Boyd, and Bria Hartley
the nyc pride parade was a success!! #loveislove #equality pic.twitter.com/iydj09Dz3K
— Kiah Stokes (@kstokes41) June 25, 2017
For many in the LGBT community, this year’s event, amidst all the celebration and revelry, also brought people to the atrocity that occurred last year at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando when 49 people were killed and another 58 injured.
Zellous’ sister, Mina lost two friends and another was injured in the mass shooting.
I’m here for myself, my sister, my teammates, the Liberty organization, the WNBA, and every person that has experienced hate or fear or uncertainty.
–Shavonte Zellous per MSG Networks
The pride parade, this is a big thing for them.
–Liberty head coach Bill Laimbeer per MSG Networks
Overall, Zellous crystallized in a few words why she attended and why those near and far attend the pride parade every year.
I’m here to celebrate love.
Be sure to check out episode 6 of The W Podcast which is available on Soundcloud and iTunes! Also, follow The W Podcast on Twitter (@thewpodcast_) and Instagram (@thewpodcast)!
By: Akiem Bailum (@AkiemBailum on Twitter, Instagram)
