Westside Story Newspaper – Online The News of The Empire – Sharing the Quest for Excellence
By Linden Beckford Jr.
(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— LOMA LINDA, CA— On Monday, July 16, there was a fantastic program held at L.A. 84 Foundation entitled, “Athletes for Impact Awards”. The event was hosted by Claudia Jordan.
Several top athletes received honors, which included: Dr. John Carlos, who was the Inaugural Legacy Award Honoree and Wyomia Tyus (1964 and 1968 Olympic Track/Field runner) received an ASI Special Recognition Award. Other honorees consisted of Michael Bennett (NFL Philadelphia Eagles), Etan Thomas (Retired Professional NBA Player), Maya Moore (WNBA Minnesota Lynx), Laila Ali (Undefeated Boxing Champion/daughter of Muhammad Ali and Ibtihaj Muhammad (U.S.Olympic Fencer).
Dr. John Carlos truly showed us that he is the same warrior he was when he stood on the world stage with his comrades Tommie Smith and Peter Norman of Australia. This coming October will make 50 years since the courageous stand was taken in Mexico City. When one looks at Michael Bennett taking a knee like Colin Kaepernick, it is clear that these athletes are taking a page out of the book. In closing, this Writer would encourage present and future athletes to make their voices heard.
Ibihaj Muhammad made her voice while competing for the United States in the United States in the 2016 Olympics. She competed in fencing as a Black woman, as well as a Muslim. As African Americans, it is critical that we forge forward with our actions positively. When we do, the world will continue to hear the words written by James Weldon Johnson, “Lift Every Voice and Sing!”
