By Quierra Luck, hornets.com
Quierra Luck is a freelance sports writer who has been featured on various sites such as BSO and WRAL Sports Fan. Quierra is an NC native and the Charlotte Hornets have always been a hometown favorite. The opinions expressed here are her own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Hornets organization.
We are winding down the month where we celebrate the achievements of the African American community. Throughout this month, I have had the pleasure to speak with different leaders of the Charlotte Hornets about the importance of Black History Month. The final spotlight belongs to Al Jefferson. Jefferson spoke not only about how important it was to grow up surrounded by positive influences, but also not to forget the lives that were sacrificed for our present.
Luck: What does Black History mean to you?
Jefferson: It means a lot to me. There are many African Americans who sacrificed their lives for us to live the way we do now. When you learn what has happened in the past, especially as a kid, it sits with you. You’re appreciative of the things they’ve done; some tough things that I’m sure was hard to endure.
Luck: Growing up, what events in Black History resonated with you?
Jefferson: I have to say Malcolm X. He had a rough start in his life from growing up doing petty crimes to becoming one of the most integral people in the Civil Rights movement. Anything he did, he gave 100% to. He saw the injustice of his people and dedicated his life to fight for us. He died believing what he was doing was right. People had the opportunity to see Malcolm X grow. He started out not wanting to join forces with people like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., but near the end of his life, changed his way of thinking and wanted to fight as one. He always stood out to me, and when Denzel Washington brought him to life on the big screen, it was great to visually celebrate a hero of mine.
Luck: How important is the growth of minorities in the NBA?
Jefferson: The NBA had to start somewhere and it just happened to be with Chuck Cooper. It started 65 years ago and opened the door up for all of us to have the opportunity the play for one of the best leagues. People have sacrificed so much, and sometimes we take that for granted. We don’t realize the work people have done for us; it only started 65 years ago.
Luck: The team is wearing “Dream” warmups to show unity during Black History Month. What does that word mean to you?
Jefferson: That brings up memories of the famous speech by Dr. King, most definitely. He dreamed of something that most didn’t even think was possible. Now here we are years later and dream came true. It’s crazy, even the people who didn’t want to believe in it have to; look around.
Luck: Have you ever experienced racism?
Jefferson: I’m from the deep part of Mississippi and am proud to say I have never experienced racism. I don’t know if I just didn’t put myself around it, but I never had a run in with it.
Luck: How do you want to be remembered?
Jefferson: I’m a kind person. I care about everyone, even those I don’t know. I have a great heart and think that’s what keeps the blessings flowing in my life. People will appreciate that. When I was growing up, I remembered every little thing anyone did for me just to do it, and that was before they knew I would be who I am now. They did it because they wanted to help a young black kid out. That’s the way I try to be. Everyone needs a little help.
Luck: What is your advice to the generation growing up now?
Jefferson: Keep God first, have positive people in your life, and be dedicated. I came out of a town of 1,700 people where there wasn’t anything to do, but you have to try to do something positive or you’ll get in trouble. I had a great family and I had a dream, which I made come true. If I can do it, anyone can.
Black History Month is a time to reflect, learn and inspire. This month forces us to talk; which isn’t the easiest of topics to discuss. No one wants to remember assassinations, beatings and endless tears, but we have to. We have to remember why Rosa Parks sat, Ida B. Wells wrote and Dr. King dreamed. We don’t remember because of school or tests. We remember so it won’t be repeated. People, both black and white, gave their lives to make sure equality and justice was given to all. Our forefathers wrote these exact words, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” It is a simple concept that was written 238 years ago, yet still isn’t grasped. To this day, we are still fighting for those unalienable rights, but hopefully we will approach a time where we won’t have to. Hopefully, this will one day be the norm.
Celebrate this month with pride, learn something new, share with friends and continue to celebrate Black History beyond its 28 days. It’s a part of your history; it’s a part of you.
“You love who you love” Jefferson stated. “The color of anyone’s skin shouldn’t matter. Love who you love.“