Breanna Stewart Condemns Minneapolis Shooting with Protest Sign

Breanna Stewart, a prominent WNBA player and co-founder of Unrivaled, made a powerful statement during a recent event by holding an “Abolish ICE” sign. This demonstration came shortly after federal immigration officers were involved in the fatal shooting of a second individual in Minneapolis.

Breanna Stewart’s Protest

Stewart expressed her feelings of disgust over recent news, stating that everyone at Unrivaled shares a mutual concern. “We’re so fueled by hate right now instead of love,” she remarked. Her message emphasizes the need for policies that uplift families rather than incite fear.

Personal Connection to Immigration Issues

The situation resonates deeply with Stewart, as her wife, Marta Xargay Casademont, is a Spanish citizen striving for U.S. citizenship. Stewart highlighted the alarming impact of immigration enforcement on communities: “It’s scary. You see it on social media, you see it splitting up families.”

Support from Other WNBA Players

Fellow WNBA players, including Napheesa Collier of the Minnesota Lynx, have shown solidarity with the protests in Minneapolis. After winning $50,000 in a recent free throw challenge, Paige Bueckers pledged to match donations to the Hopkins Strong Relief Fund, aiding food security in her home community.

• Natisha Hiedeman expressed her heartbreak over the violence in Minnesota, emphasizing the city’s beauty and its vibrant community.
• Brianna Turner voiced concerns about the impact of federal agents on local residents, noting the troubling nature of improperly trained personnel.

Moment of Reflection and Activism

Before the start of the Unrivaled games, a moment of silence was held to honor the victims of recent events in Minnesota. The announcement conveyed the league’s condolences to those affected by the violence.

Stewart highlighted the importance of community engagement in the face of crisis, urging players to advocate for change at all levels of government. “How many times do we have to see it happen over and over again?” she asked, underscoring the urgency for reform.

Ongoing Activism in the WNBA

The WNBA has a history of activism, particularly during the 2020 season, which focused on social justice issues. As players negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement, Stewart affirmed that their teams support their activism, creating a foundation for ongoing dialogue and change.