With the recent mass shootings in Boulder, Colorado, and Atlanta, Georgia, a major talking point throughout the country, Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr used his media availability on Tuesday night to raise awareness for the situation. Kerrs’ virtual background during his press conference displayed the names of the 18 victims of the recent shootings across the country.
Kerr began the press conference by making sure all media members and reporters acknowledged the names of the victims displayed behind him. His opening statement was personal and heartfelt in hopes of resonating with those listening.
�I think it�s, first of all, important to reference their names,� Kerr said. �These are human beings. The thought of the mothers and fathers and sisters, brothers, daughters, and sons who are grieving right now with the loss of the people behind me is just devastating.”�
Warriors Head Coach Steve Kerr
Kerrs’ Advocacy and Personal Connection
Kerr has frequently voiced his support for more expansive gun control laws throughout the United States. In 2018, he held a town hall discussion to advocate for better gun laws throughout the country. Two years later, and Kerr is still fighting the same battle.
Part of Kerrs’ advocacy for gun control comes from his own personal experience. In 1984, two gunmen assassinated Kerrs’ father (Malcolm Kerr) in Beruit, Lebanon. Malcolm Kerr was serving as the president of American University in Beruit at the time of his death.
Other figures across the NBA also addressed the mass shootings in their post-game interviews. Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone also took the chance to express his sadness for the victims and their families.
Obviously, I think we’re all tired of it. That’s an understatement. I know, for me, you get so caught up in the job and basketball … We get judged on wins and losses, but if you take a step back and you put yourself in one of those families, what do you feel?
Denver Nuggets Head Coach Michael Malone
The NBA players and coaches have done a fantastic job of using their platforms to promote systemic change throughout our country, dating back to the Black Lives Matter protests that occurred last summer. This advocacy of change will undoubtedly continue as the country continues to grieve these most recent shootings.
