The Golden State Valkyries kicked off Black History Month in a powerful way.
On Saturday the Bay Area team debuted R.I.S.E. — Rights, Inclusion, Strength, and Empowerment — a year-round campaign that "celebrates Black history and culture" and "embodies the belief that Black history and achievement should be recognized and elevated beyond a single month."
The program will see the team and staff visiting youth detention centers and leading events for the youth that will offer education on rights and the importance of community.
Golden State Valkyries R.I.S.E. events
The team has two events planned for the month of February. Both events will directly impact the youth and families living in the Bay Area.
On February 23, the Valkyries will take part in the Black Joy Parade — "A hyper positive non-profit based in Oakland that celebrates Black experience and community's contribution to history and culture with its iconic parade and celebration."
And on February 26, the team will visit San Leandro Juvenile Detention Center, where staff will lead basketball workshops and clinics, share their own stories, and provide wellness-related resources. They will also offer "hands-on basketball sessions, motivational talks, and creative expression through art."
The team has not yet announced future events as part of R.I.S.E., but did note that they will take part in a "historic moment" on June 19, when the Valkyries host the Indiana Fever at Chase Center for a Juneteenth event. "This signature game will be the centerpiece of celebration of Black culture and achievement, connecting basketball with broader community commemoration of this significant holiday," the press release explained.
Kate Martin recently signed on as part of the Athleta Power of She Collective
The news comes on the heels of Athleta's announcement that Valkyries guard Kate Martin has joined the brand's Power of She Collective.
"It's an honor to join the Power of She Collective alongside such an incredible group of athletes who are advancing both women's sports and female empowerment," Martin said in a press release about the move. "I'm looking forward to working with Athleta to help elevate and recognize female athletes in the way they truly deserve."
Athleta highlighted Martin's dedicated fan base and her own steely determination to get the job done as part of why they wanted to bring her on board. "Kate is known for her intense and creative workouts that she shares via social media captivating fans with her hard work and tenacity grit," the brand explained.