February is Black History Month, the time of year to celebrate the influence Black figures have had not just on the country but also on the world.
Today, the Edison Public Library recognizes NBA-star-turned activist Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
Abdul-Jabbar's career in the NBA spanned an incredible 20 seasons, playing for both the Milwaukee Bucks and the LA Lakers. He holds numerous records, including the most points scored in league history. It’s not hyperbole to say that Abdul-Jabbar changed the game of basketball: in college, under his given name of Lew Alcindor, his dominance on the court was so fierce that officials banned the slam dunk to make the game more fair. This led Abdul-Jabbar to perfect what became his signature shot—the skyhook.
Off the court, Abdul-Jabbar was equally as impactful. He was a strong advocate for social justice and used his platform to speak out on important issues, including race relations and political activism. He was a true role model, both as an athlete and as a person, and inspired countless people with his dedication to excellence and his commitment to making a difference.
But what many people may not know is that Abdul-Jabbar is also a writer. He has published several books, including a memoir, a children's book, and several works on African American history. He has also co-authored a series of books focusing on Mycroft Holmes, the brother of the literary character Sherlock Holmes.
Abdul-Jabbar's writing reflects his passion for social justice and his desire to make a positive impact. |
