“WIN”

This piece, “Win”, is created out of basketballs, footballs, shoes, and shoelaces. 56 years ago today, twelve of the most prominent Black athletes gathered in Cleveland to decide if they would lend their support to Muhammad Ali. Ali was facing charges for refusing to serve in the Vietnam War. Many of these athletes had different ideas on the advancement of Black people in America, but their ability to convene and ultimately become a unified group is what holds so much significance. Ali’s firm stance was not changed despite many of these athletes disagreeing with him. This moment in history is SO important because it shows the product of using your platform. It shows the power of staying grounded in your belief of what’s right, and what solidarity truly is - even in disagreement. These athletes sacrificed money, popularity, and even freedom in order to make a unified stand. This moment in time shows the character of these people , who are much more than just athletes. While Jim Brown’s legacy outside of sports is deplorable, it does not negate the value of this moment. This was a huge win for Black progress and sports in America. This was known as The Cleveland Summit.