Shut Up and Dribble: An Analysis of Athletes’ Abilities to Promote Social Change in the Black Community Through Their Platform

Abstract

The United States of America was built on the foundation that all people are created equally, and they have unalienable rights - life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Still, skin color has been a constant factor that determines who will be able to receive these privileges. The Black community is one of many minority races within America that is unable to reap the true benefits of living in a free and equal civilization. This thesis addresses the specific hindrances that have halted the progress of equality for the Black community, such as judiciary bias, targeted policing, and federally regulated living conditions. The studies within this thesis observe how professional athletes LeBron James, Colin Kaepernick, and Muhammad Ali have approached these challenges. Using their platforms, which have grown as a result of their careers in professional sports, these athletes are able to influence society to create equal opportunities at a promised lifestyle for Black individuals. Thus, supporting the notion that athletes are able to create cultural impacts due to their elevated status in society.