The WNBA announced the launch of its player-led Public Service Announcement that raises awareness about racial disparities in healthcare. The PSA, "Our Health is Worth a Shot" is vaccine-related and features several players from across the league.
The WNBA and the WNBPA came together last year to form the Social Justice Council following the deaths of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd. This PSA is a part of the Council's push for health equity by “highlighting the inequities and systemic racism in healthcare, while championing the importance of mental health, as one of their key focus areas during the 2021 season,” a press release said.
The PSA premiered during the WNBA Draft on April 15 and features Elizabeth Williams of the Atlanta Dream, Nneka Ogwumike from the Los Angeles Sparks, New York Liberty’s Layshia Clarendon, and A’ja Wilson from the Los Vegas Aces.
In addition to the message, the league is joining the WNBPA to donate $25,000 to Black Women’s Health Imperative to support “their mission to help protect and advance the health and wellness of Black women and girls.” The League will also be creating vaccine sites in communities before the season starts.
This initiative is a part of the WNBA’s “Count It” campaign during its 25th season. The Social Justice Council is spearheading advocacy efforts, building off of last year’s efforts to combat gender inequality, promote LGBTQ+ rights, and advocate for reform across systems.
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