Celebrating Black History Month: Recognizing Local Pioneers in NBA Cities

• NBA

As we commemorate Black History Month, it's crucial to recognize the individuals who have played significant roles in building the communities where NBA teams play. These individuals:

"In every community, work must be done. In every nation, there are wounds to heal. In every heart, there is the power to do it." Marianne Williamson

comes from diverse backgrounds, embodying civil rights activists, business owners, politicians, artists, and more. Many of them have broken barriers during times of intense racism in the United States.

Atlanta: Herman J. Russell

Herman J. Russell, a native of Atlanta, rose from poverty to revolutionize the Atlanta skyline. He created one of the largest Black-owned real estate and construction companies, which demolished racial and economic barriers to develop Atlanta-Hartsfield International Airport, the Georgia Dome, and Georgia-Pacific headquarters, among other significant projects. Russell also provided bail money for Civil Rights leaders jailed while fighting racial injustice in the 1950s and '60s.

Boston: Mel King

Mel King, a community organizer and civil rights icon, organized a protest in 1968 to prevent a parking garage from replacing housing and displacing Black and brown occupants. Celtics star Bill Russell provided food for the protestors at his restaurant, Slade's Bar and Grill. Although it took nearly two decades, a subsidized housing complex, now known as "Tent City," was eventually built. King's dedication continues to inspire Boston's Black community today.

Charlotte: Harvey Gantt

Trailblazer Harvey Gantt became the first Black student accepted to Clemson University in 1963. He earned his master's degree at MIT and then moved to Charlotte, where he co-founded an architecture firm. In 1983, Gantt made history again by becoming the first Black mayor of Queen City.

Chicago: Tammera L. Holmes

West Side Chicago native Tammera L. Holmes founded AeroStar Consulting Corporation—an aviation company that provides services and programming for underrepresented youth. AeroStar's programs aim to promote and support the academic awareness of aviation and aeronautical career path opportunities for students, particularly female, minority, underprivileged, and at-risk youth.

Cleveland: Carl Burton Stokes

Carl Burton Stokes, the first African American to lead a major U.S. city, became the 51st mayor of Cleveland in 1968. Stokes advocated for Civil Rights and led progressive reforms during his two terms in office. His significant efforts include leading the Cuyahoga River's cleanup and implementing more robust pollution control mandates throughout the city.

Dallas: Dr. Opal Lee

Known as the "Grandmother of Juneteenth," Dr. Opal Lee has worked tirelessly to preserve the history and timeline of the emancipation of Texas enslaved people. Dr. Lee's efforts were recognized when President Joe Biden signed legislation in 2021 that made Juneteenth a federal holiday. Dr. Lee received a Nobel Peace Prize nomination in 2022 for her significant role in making history.