We are in a time where words are being drummed out by action.
Beautiful phrases and empty promises all things related to cause marketing and social responsibility are getting outed with regularity as WHAT you do and HOW you do it rightfully becomes more important than WHAT you say.
A great example surfaced in the last few days, amidst the chaos of the current elected leadership. The NBPA announced that over 85% of players and team staff were now registered to vote. While some may say…so what…consider that reports surfaced and many, including Doc Rivers, were very vocal in late August when it was pointed out that just two years ago only 20% of players had registered to vote, so having massive voter awareness campaigns when those doing the talking had a really hollow ring.
That has all changed, as a player driven initiative, the captivity of the Bubble in Orlando, and the continued rise of social issues has produced such a peasant surprise that came out this week. What is better is the PA and the league are continuing to press to reach 100% of eligible voters signed up by the November 3 election. The excuses made before…voting does not matter, apathy, the ever-transient nature of player locations…all have been swept away.
Why is this important?
It shows player activism can translate to action very quickly.
It shows responsibility and seriousness around a cause many people of their age might now have grasped in recent years.
It shows leadership at a time when leadership on all levels is questioned.
It also sends a message that athletes can make an impact and can work together to continue to inspire higher…”SHUT UP AND DRIBBLE” is pretty much gone forever.
Now registration does not mean voting, so the next critical step of action will be important.
But to go from 20% to over 80% in such a short period for anything where action is needed is astounding, and worth noting and applauding.
Loud voices leading to loud actions, worthy of praise.
