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Black History Month represents many things: civic leadership, social stewardship, community activation and much more. Nike recognizes the importance of this meaningful month with not only a product collection, but a larger recognition of the power of sports to impact society. The 2013 Nike Black History Month Collection mantra ³Be Bold. Be True.² celebrates three athletes who are fearless in action and fueled by a purpose.

Now more than ever, athletes at all levels have a unique ability to extend their voice beyond sports. Soccer superstar Didier Drogba, tennis legend Serena Williams and basketball phenom Kevin Durant provide creative inspiration for the product collection based on their commitment to giving back to their communities.

All three athletes are celebrated in this year¹s collection; each has an individual logo. Drogba’s is a light bulb morphed with a soccer ball, representing his ongoing involvement in bringing solar light bulbs to impoverished areas in Africa. Williams¹ icon consists of a tennis ball emanating with lightning bolts, showing how she empowers young women, especially through the secondary school she helped build in Kenya. Durant¹s icon represents the hopes and dreams of young athletes, with a basketball hoop merging with a cloud formation, a nod to the support he has given to his hometown recreation center in Seat Pleasant, Maryland, a place he attributes for helping him realize his own dreams.

On Saturday February 23rd, 2013 Nike hosted a day of service in celebration of the 37th annual Black History Month with the Big Brothers, Big Sisters Metro Atlanta organization. Three Atlanta based athletes who were rebels in their sport as well as game changers in their community were selected to inspire the youth and enable with a purpose. Anson Carter (NHL – Shirt Off My Back), Fred McCrary (NFL- 44 Ways Foundation), and Warrick Dunn (NFL – Homes For The Holiday’s / Warrick Dunn Charities) spoke to a room of BBBS “Little’s” about what it means to “Be Bold. Be True.” They also shared stories of their past, and the obstacles they’ve overcome to achieve their goals.

In addition Nike Sportswear Senior Footwear Designer Jonathan Johnson-Griffin was also in attendance to speak about his journey as an African American designer, as well as the inspiration behind the 2013 Nike Black History Month footwear and apparel collection.

The event was hosted by WXIA 11 Alive’s Sam Crenshaw and took place at the Big Brothers Big Sisters midtown headquarters nicknamed “The House.” Exclusive Nike “Be Bold. Be True.” T-shirts were given out to youth in
attendance.

In keeping with a tradition of honoring organizations that give back and inspire youth, NIKE, Inc. will make a financial contribution to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America with proceeds from the Nike BHM Collection.

Photo Credit: Chris Mitchell

Nike Atlanta Pays Tribute To Black History Month