When I think of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, it brings about a spirit of calmness. I reflect on the teachings of a man who fought for equality for everyone. His teachings have impacted millions, changing our society and communities all across America and the world. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is a U.S. federal holiday marking the birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. It is observed on the third Monday of January each year. This holiday symbolizes the spirit of serving one’s community and giving back in some form not just today, but every opportunity we have available to do so.
There are many females who live his mission every single day. These women are tremendous individuals who challenge the status quo and keep Dr. King’s vision alive. Here are two women athletes who serve as role models that are helping our communities grow.
Jackie Joyner-Kersee is considered one of the most influential leaders of women in sports. In 1988, she founded the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation, which provides youth, adults, and families with the resources to improve their quality of life and to enhance communities worldwide, with special attention directed to East St. Louis, Illinois. Her Foundation supports programs in: Education, Culture Arts, Sports Fitness Recreation, Character Leadership and Health & Life Skills. In 2000 the Jackie Joyner Kersee Foundation raised over $12 million to build The Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center.
She has won three gold, one silver and two bronze medals over four consecutive Olympic Games. Jackie earned an elite spot in women’s sports. Four years after winning a silver medal in the heptathlon at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, Jackie won both the heptathlon and the long jump in Seoul. At the 1992 Barcelona Games, she won an additional heptathlon gold and a bronze in the long jump. In Atlanta, She claimed a bronze in the long-jump, closing out her historic Olympic career.
Billie Jean King is one of the most famous athletes and social icons in American history. She has been a champion for social change and equality. King created new inroads for women in sports and beyond during her legendary career and she continues to make her mark today.
Billie Jean King won her first of a record 20 Wimbledon titles when she captured the 1961 Wimbledon Ladies’ Doubles Championship with Karen Hantze in 1961. She went on to win 39 Grand Slam singles, doubles and mixed doubles titles during her career. On September 20, 1973, she empowered women and men all over the world when she defeated Bobby Riggs in one of the greatest moments in sports history – the Battle of the Sexes. This match is remembered for its effect on society and its contribution to the women’s movement.
Billie Jean King founded Women’s Sports Foundation in 1974, Billie Jean has lead the organization in its mission to advance the lives of girls and women through sports and physical activity. In the past 34 years, the Foundation has awarded more than $50 million in educational and cash grants to advance participation, research and leadership in sports and physical activity for girls and women.
As we start 2011, please consider ways you can volunteer in your community. Please check out www.stlouisvolunteen.com. The website was created by fellow teen St. Louisian Simone Bernstein. The website helps link teens with volunteer opportunities in the St. Louis area. The site lists volunteer opportunities for teens and tweens (and even some for adults) at more than 40 local organizations.
Raven Lingard is a high school student in St. Louis, Missouri and the creator of www.sportsrave.com a website dedicated to providing sports information for female teens.
