The York University Lions women's basketball team has taken the fight for racial and social justice into their own hands through an inspiring virtual fundraising initiative for Black Lives Matter (BLM) Toronto.
 
The initiative came after members of the team's leadership group viewed the overwhelming response to the scenes of injustice in Canada and the United States this past year.
 
Inspired by the calls for justice, the girls sprang into action and had an array of Black Lives Matter t-shirts designed for distribution. The black t-shirts featured "Black Lives Matter" in bold, white lettering on the front, and a variety of slogans on the back.
 
Hard work often results in high reward, and that's exactly what happened here. The team smashed through their goal of 250 sold t-shirts, selling 338. They raised a total of $2,796.97.
 
"After seeing all the positive work being done by Black Lives Matter, our team chose to lead a fundraiser in support of an organization that is leading the way in fighting for Justice, Freedom, and Equality," said Erin McAleenan, the team's head coach. "Our student-athletes have led the charge to establish a few initiatives that we have taken on as a team this year to not only show our support for the Black community and other racialized groups, but to help educate ourselves and others, and use our platform to amplify the voices of women of colour."
 
The team took their lead from role models in the WNBA and NBA, who spoke out against the social injustices occurring in 2020, encouraged people to get out and vote, and advocated for the victims of police brutality. The visual element of their movement was wearing  BLM t-shirts during game warm-ups, and social justice slogans on their jersey name bars.
 
"I'm so proud to be a part of a program that is committed to social justice. Since the murder of George Floyd, our women's basketball program has had many conversations around systemic racism, violence towards Black people, and how we can educate ourselves and our communities to stand up and evoke change," said McAleenan.
 
"By selling York BLM t-shirts, we had the goal of not only fundraising money for BLM Toronto but also speaking out and taking a stand with the Black community," explained Cyanna King, a fourth-year women's basketball player and children's studies major. "We believe the Black community is a very important part of not only York athletics, but all of society. And as a team, we believe that they should be recognized and supported as such."
 
The initiative didn't stop at t-shirts. As part of the effort, the women's basketball team is leading a social media campaign highlighting the impact of Black and Indigenous women around the world.
 
Each Monday, they highlight the story and accomplishments of a different Black and/or Indigenous woman on the team's Instagram page. A variety of strong women delivered their stories on breaking racial barriers in their respective careers. They have dubbed it the 'Influential Black and Indigenous Women Throughout History" initiative.
 
McAleenan, the sixth-year bench boss of the Lions program, thanks all supporters of the BLM fundraiser, and specifically, the members of her team. 
 
"I am very proud to be surrounded by young women who recognize the importance of social justice and commit to playing a role in creating a better future."
 
Individuals interested in aiding the drive to dismantle anti-Black racism and play a role in creating a future without systemic discrimination against persons of colour may visit Black Lives Matter Toronto to donate or request a speaker for an event.
 
This initiative complements a massive undertaking at York University during the month of February to celebrate Black History Month. The Athletics & Recreation Department has a number of initiatives planned throughout the month and more information can be found on the BIVSAA webpage.