Still Dreaming: 3 Lakers stars and their social justice strides

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 22: Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers and Quinn Cook #28 of the Los Angeles Lakers kneel during the National Anthem with VOTE shirts on prior to the start of the game against the Denver Nuggets in Game Three of the Western Conference Finals during the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena at the ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on September 22, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 22: Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers and Quinn Cook #28 of the Los Angeles Lakers kneel during the National Anthem with VOTE shirts on prior to the start of the game against the Denver Nuggets in Game Three of the Western Conference Finals during the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena at the ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on September 22, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
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(Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers
(Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers

Happy Martin Luther King Day! On this day, we remember Dr. Martin Luther King and his contributions to social justice in America and abroad.

Whether it’s Dr. King, Malcolm X, or Gandhi, we have learned quite a bit about social justice leaders. However, we often overlook athletes, entertainers, and other celebrities that have used their influence to invite change and propel humanity forward.

In honor of the MLK holiday and our current social climate, I’ve written this piece to spotlight the ground-breaking accomplishments that a few Los Angeles Lakers stars have made to civil rights and social justice initiatives over the years.

Although championship rings, MVP awards, and flashy highlights will likely be at the forefront of most Laker legacies, it is important to remember those who have given us so much more.

As a result, I present to you three Los Angeles Lakers legacies that will extend far beyond the basketball court.