February 21st 2024.
The Super Bowl is always an exciting event, and this year's Super Bowl LVIII was no exception. A whopping 123.7 million people tuned in to watch the Kansas City Chiefs claim their second consecutive championship. But it wasn't just about the game itself – there were also some incredible performances, including a show-stopping halftime performance by R&B superstar Usher Raymond. It was a night to remember, but there's more to the NFL than just the on-field action.
Behind the scenes, there is a league of dedicated professionals working hard to keep the NFL and its players running smoothly. Unfortunately, these individuals often don't get the recognition they deserve, especially those representing athletes. It's even more challenging for Black professionals to break into or advance in the sports industry. That's why attorney Jaia Thomas, Esq. created Diverse Representation – an organization focused on increasing the hiring and exposure of African Americans in sports and entertainment.
Jaia was in Las Vegas for Super Bowl Weekend and shared, "I was tired of seeing so many Black athletes and entertainers being represented by white agents, attorneys, managers, and publicists. I wanted to see more of them being represented by people who look like them." Diverse Representation began as a directory of Black attorneys, agents, managers, and publicists in sports and entertainment, but it has since grown to include various programs and events.
Leading up to Super Bowl Sunday, Jaia joined forces with the Minorities in Sports Business Network to host the second annual "Toast to Black Sports Luncheon." The event, held on February 8th, honored two of the five Black NFL team presidents – Jason Wright of the Washington Commanders and Kevin Warren of the Chicago Bears. "During Super Bowl weekend, there is a lot of focus on celebrating the players and those on the field. But we realized that there wasn't enough recognition for the people behind the scenes – the agents, owners, and executives," Jaia explained to BLACK ENTERPRISE. "We wanted to create a space for Black professionals in sports to come together, celebrate, and network."
The luncheon, held at the elegant Italian steakhouse Brezza on the Las Vegas strip, was an intimate affair attended by former NFL players, sports agents, and executives from Goldman Sachs, the event's sponsor. Jaia shared, "Both Jason and Kevin gave inspiring speeches when accepting their awards. They truly lit up the room, and I think everyone left feeling motivated."
After the luncheon, Kevin Warren spoke with BE and emphasized the importance of faith and identity in career success. "We need to embrace our background and heritage, and also have a strong faith. I've found that life becomes simpler when you follow God's voice and wisdom," he shared. Jason Wright also spoke with BE and expressed his optimism about diversity efforts in the NFL. He also acknowledged the achievements of the three other Black team presidents – Sashi Brown of the Baltimore Ravens, Sandra Douglass Morgan of the Las Vegas Raiders, and Damani Leech of the Denver Broncos. "Sandra led the league in ticket revenue, Kevin is making progress on a new stadium deal, and Damani completed a major renovation. The Ravens continue to outperform for their market, and we led the league in all revenue growth categories," he said. "The belief in Black intellect to run businesses in terms of dollars and cents is growing, and more people will get opportunities in the future."
In addition to the luncheon, Diverse Representation also partnered with William Morris Endeavor (WME), one of the world's largest sports and entertainment talent agencies, to host a networking event for diverse agents, executives, and managers in the industry. The event featured an open bar, light bites, and a gifting suite showcasing products from Black-owned businesses such as PATTERN Beauty, Brandon Blackwood, WILL Perform by Serena Williams, and Harlem Candle Co. The highlight of the event was a fireside chat with sports journalists and WME clients Jemele Hill and Cari Champion.
During the discussion, Jemele noted the challenges facing diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, citing the weaponization of critical race theory by right-wing conservatives. "Unfortunately, those same companies that were pledging to listen to and support Black people just a few years ago have now turned their backs," she shared. "This is what people need to understand about supporting marginalized communities – it's a tough fight."
Cari also praised Jemele for her unwavering support throughout her career and the opportunities she provided while working together at ESPN. "When I didn't believe in myself and didn't think my voice mattered, Jemele had my back. She invited me on her show to share my opinions when I didn't think anyone cared. She helped me develop my voice. She already had the street credibility and acumen, and I was the new girl in town," she shared.
Diverse Representation and WME's event was a hit, with attendees enjoying the open bar, delicious food, and the chance to network with other professionals in the industry. It was a fantastic way to celebrate diversity and showcase the incredible talent and contributions of Black professionals in sports and entertainment. As we continue to push for diversity and inclusion in all industries, events like this remind us of the importance of supporting and uplifting marginalized communities.
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