Dr. Martin Luther King’s dream called for equality, a just society and a world without discrimination. He sparked a movement that continues to change the world for good.
Today the Atlanta Dream honors Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr’s vision by celebrating his life, legacy and commitment to building a stronger and more unified community.
As the epicenter of the civil rights movement, the city of Atlanta continues to embody the spirit of civic responsibility, and the Atlanta Dream is no different. The Dream exist to serve our community in Dr. King’s memory by lifting under-represented voices, celebrating diversity, rewarding innovation and imagination and empowering women both on and off the court.
We don’t see our sport as just a game. We know sport is and will always be a catalyst for social change. It’s a valuable tool for teaching teamwork, inclusion, conflict resolution and core human values, as well as providing a platform where under-represented voices can be heard. It’s a platform we intend to use to honor Dr. King’s vision and help bring opportunities to those whose voice might not otherwise be heard.
“I say to you today, my friends. And so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.
– Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. from his “I have a Dream” speech
Established in 2008 in the legacy of King’s vision, the Atlanta Dream was founded, and the foundation was laid. Yet on so many levels, women’s basketball has absorbed those sentiments and over the past several years, the Atlanta Dream athletes have raised their voices to spark meaningful change. They have embodied Dr. King’s “Dream” of a more just America by leading the change on an array of civil rights and social justice issues. In 2021, Dream players were recognized for their tremendous work off the court by being named the ESPN Sports Humanitarian Team of the Year. The organization itself was honored by Clio Sports and Athlete Ally for their work fighting racial injustice and voter suppression and was one of the first sports entities to speak out in support of the World Tennis Association and professional tennis player Peng Shuai.
As we enter our 15th season, the Atlanta Dream is committed to working for the communities we seek to serve every day and vow to back up our words with our actions, continue to lift the voices of marginalized communities and work to empower women.
Our athletes and employees do it for each other.
We do it for Atlanta.
We do it for girls and women everywhere…
and we do it for the Dream.