Celebrating Black History Month.
Last week, Indy was more alive than ever as we celebrated the NBA All-Star Game and the importance of basketball to Indiana. With opportunities to get custom All-Star sneakers, attend concerts, and see an amazing art exhibition curated by GANGGANG, there was something for everyone.
I was honored to attend an event of particular importance to me – recognizing Hoosier basketball legend Oscar Robertson. Also known as “the Big O,” he was my grandmother’s classmate, and I’ve always known the profound influence he had on basketball. He wasn’t just one of the best players of all time, but he made lasting impacts on the sport in other ways. The Big O’s advocacy led to the Oscar Robertson Rule, which led to the NBA’s adoption of free agency for its players, expanding new professional opportunities for talented athletes.
Robertson was a trailblazer in what he was able to overcome as a Black player, starting in segregation and moving into heightened times of racial tension. He was selected head of the 1960 U.S. Olympic Basketball Team, but because of his race, he was only able to serve as co-captain, not full captain. He also broke ground as the University of Cincinnati’s first Black basketball player. Throughout his life, he faced racism and prejudice, but his persistence and resilience drove him to a record number of titles and championships.
The Big O is truly one of the greats. In a state where basketball is an undeniable part of our culture, it’s past time the Big O is properly recognized. Fortunately, he is about to be introduced to a whole new generation with a future statue in front of Crispus Attucks, his alma mater. And I was pleased to cement Oscar Robertson’s place in the permanent record by issuing a Congressional Record Statement in his honor.
As we approach the end of Black History Month, check out my column in the Indianapolis Recorder to learn more about my work to recognize Black legends throughout history and promote progress and opportunity for our community all year round.
Hip Hop Task Force:
As a former rapper and longtime activist, Hip Hop has always been part of my life. For generations, Hip Hop and the power of music have done more than just entertain – it’s put a desire for social change into words and given a voice to marginalized groups. That’s why I’m so honored to be co-founder of Congress’ very first Hip Hop Power and Justice Task Force. This initiative will promote the shared values of Hip Hop while advocating for solutions to issues that disproportionately impact Black, Indigenous, Latinx, and other marginalized groups, such as limited access to healthcare, economic opportunity and artistic freedoms, but over-exposure to mass incarceration. Hip Hop has long shaped change, and it’s past time Congress recognizes its power and uplift the voices that have been silenced for far too long.
Annual Youth Opportunities Fair:
Save the date! My Annual Youth Opportunities Fair will be held on Tuesday, March 12th from noon – 7:00p.m. at the Ivy Tech Culinary and Conference Center, 2820 N. Meridian St. Indianapolis, IN 46208. Each year, hundreds of youths of all ages – as well as parents, grandparents, and caregivers – attend this event to access information on summer programs, internships, year-round programs, and more. Giving young people enriching and fun opportunities during the summer months is key to their development and growth, and it strengthens our community too. My Your Opportunity Fair ensures you and your family can explore all your options in one place. This event is FREE to attend! Learn more here.
Team Carson is Here to Serve:
Did you know that in 2023, my office responded to over 70,000 of your messages and brought $1.5 MILLION directly back to Indianapolis families? Team Carson is here to serve you – get in touch to find out how we can help you navigate a federal agency, access government benefits, or recognize a community member’s milestone.
For updates throughout the week, don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Your Friend,
André