New York, NY, November 9, 2021 … ADL (the Anti-Defamation League) today honored five-time Olympic gold medalist and four-time WNBA champion Sue Bird with its inaugural Changemaker Award for continuously using her platform to affect positive social change and empowering others to be open in their identity, beliefs and embrace authenticity.
“Sue, through her tireless work on and off the court, exemplifies everything we could possibly envision for ADL’s inaugural Changemaker Award,” said ADL CEO Jonathan A. Greenblatt. “Throughout her career, from the collegiate level to the pros to the Olympics, Sue has been a champion everywhere she’s been. More importantly, however, she has always used her platform to champion and uplift others, living her life in a way that encourages others to feel empowered to be open in their identity, as well.”
Earlier this year, Sue marched as a flag bearer in front of the U.S. Olympic team in Tokyo. Sue is also an inspirational leader who uses her platform to advocate for Black Lives, equality, health, and wellness and expand opportunities for girls and all marginalized people. As a co-founder of Togethxr, a media/commerce company, she hopes to uplift the next generation of women in sports.
The award was presented at ADL’s annual Never Is Now Summit on Antisemitism and Hate, which is being held virtually this year, at the Closing Session.
ADL’s Changemaker Award will be presented to a leader in the fields of sports or entertainment who has used their platform and position to affect positive change in the world. This award recognizes individuals who have advocated for justice and fair treatment to all while leading others in efforts to make their industry, and society as a whole, more equitable and inclusive.