Golden State Warriors highlight Black community health and excellence at African American Heritage Night

by Kevin Epps

The Golden State Warriors took center stage in celebrating Black excellence and addressing critical issues in Black community health during their annual African American Heritage Night at Chase Center. It was more than just a game — it was a platform to uplift Black voices, honor changemakers and emphasize the need for greater access to healthcare.

As part of the evening’s focus on health and wellness, Ceres Policy Research, in partnership with the Contra Costa Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice, introduced a groundbreaking initiative: the African American Resource and Wellness Hub. The program will bring mobile health clinics to Black communities across Contra Costa County, with a central clinic planned for Antioch, California.

Expanding healthcare access for Black communities

Dr. Kerby Lynch, a leader in the initiative, underscored the importance of reaching underserved Black neighborhoods with culturally competent care.

“Contra Costa is the size of Rhode Island, practically a state in itself,” Dr. Lynch explained. “So we’re creating a mobile network of health providers that serve Black communities and neighborhoods. In the future, we plan to open a central clinic in Antioch.”

The mobile clinics are designed to tackle the stark health disparities affecting Black residents in the Bay Area. Dr. Lynch stressed that community input would play a crucial role in shaping the services provided.

“We’re here today to hear from the people,” Dr. Lynch said. “We have a community survey, and we’re going to use the data we collect to better understand the needs of Black residents.”

Beyond healthcare, she also highlighted the broader systemic inequalities impacting Black communities.

“We’re here celebrating excellence on the court, but the reality is that Black people in the Bay Area lead in every single category of death. However, we don’t lead in every single category of life — whether it’s education, homeownership or business ownership,” Dr. Lynch stated. “We must be clear about these everyday material realities and ensure that resources and services reach our communities.”

A community-centered approach

Researcher Randi Dean-Lopez, who has been gathering data on community needs, emphasized the significance of representation in healthcare.

“We have been conducting multiple surveys, speaking with youth, elders and others in disproportionately African American underserved communities,” Dean-Lopez shared.

She stressed the importance of having healthcare providers who understand the unique challenges of Black patients.

“It’s critical to have a place where people who look like us can receive care from providers who understand their specific needs,” she added.

Bully Talking: Advocating for youth and community engagement

Beyond healthcare, African American Heritage Night also highlighted other vital community-driven initiatives, including anti-bullying advocacy.

Kina Evans, educator, founder and CEO of Bully Talking, discussed the organization’s mission to combat bullying and support Bay Area youth.

“Bully Talking is an anti-bullying organization that travels throughout the Bay Area,” Evans explained. “We do anti-bullying assemblies, youth ambassador programs, and parent engagement. We also do a lot of outreach and bring awareness to bullying and what’s going on in the community to help others.”

Bully Talking plays a critical role in promoting safer schools and fostering environments where young people feel supported. By participating in events like African American Heritage Night, the organization continues to spread its message of empowerment and resilience.

Warriors honor Black excellence

The Golden State Warriors made it clear that their commitment to the Black community extends beyond basketball. African American Heritage Night was filled with performances, tributes and cultural celebrations, reinforcing the importance of Black history and achievement.

Key highlights of the night included:

• A resource fair showcasing local Black-owned businesses at the West Concourse Terrace.

• A marching band performance by Hogan Middle School at Thrive City.

• A pre-game dance performance by the Chicago Step Group.

• A powerful rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by St. Mary’s College Black Excellence Choir.

• The National Anthem performed by Alfreda Lyons and the Sangin’ Saints.

• A gymnastics display by Vice World Champion and four-time U.S. Champion Wheel Gymnast Cornell Freeney at the end of the first quarter.

• A Black History Month empowerment-themed performance by the Warriors Dance Team’s Gold Squad.

• A halftime tribute honoring Fredrika Newton, activist and president of the Dr. Huey P. Newton Foundation, as the night’s “Impact Warrior,” an award recognizing individuals making a meaningful difference in their communities.

The event was more than just a celebration — it was a statement. It showcased the Warriors’ dedication to uplifting the Black community while bringing attention to critical issues like healthcare access and youth advocacy.

The African American Resource and Wellness Hub and organizations like Bully Talking stand as tangible steps toward strengthening the Black community in the Bay Area. With the Warriors amplifying these efforts, the message is clear: Black lives matter not just in death, but in life, success and well-being.

The Bay View’s executive editor and Hunters Point’s favorite son, filmmaker Kevin Epps, is best known for the game-changing “Straight Outta Hunters Point” and for “Black Rock,” “Rap Dreams,” “Fam Bam” and more. He has collaborated on projects with Google, Yahoo, Discovery Channel, Current TV and a host of other media partners. He was awarded an artist fellowship by the world renowned de Young Museum. His passion for advocacy for his community is legendary. He can be reached at [email protected]. 

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Source: https://sfbayview.com/2025/03/golden-state-warriors-highlight-black-community-health-and-excellence-at-african-american-heritage-night/