Montgomery calls for social justice activism during Woke speech at EWU

By Cilicia Anderson
Special to the Outlook

At 5-foot-7, Renee Montgomery could have easily considered herself way too small to think about a basketball career in college. 

Much less, playing professionally in the Women’s National Basketball Association.

Size wasn’t enough to discourage her, though. She proved that as a high-school player in her native St. Albans, West Virginia, overcoming the odds and disproving the naysayers on her way to the University of Connecticut. 

Her method was simple, although it took all the determination that she could muster.

“My whole profession and my whole basketball upbringing was about being that undersized guard that belongs and so every day, the way that I kind of combated my doubts was, ‘I’m gonna just outwork you,’ ” said Montgomery, who helped the Huskies win a national title in 2009. “Maybe I don’t have the right body for this, maybe I can’t jump very high, but I bet you can’t outwork me, I’m gonna be ready every time.”

That commitment to work is central to successes that Montgomery has had off the court, too. She shares ownership of two professional teams, including the Atlanta Dream. Her analysis of basketball makes her a sought-after broadcaster, and she is well-known for her activism.

Using her platform, Montgomery has established a foundation, which supports women and athletes seeking to overcome challenging circumstances.

Montgomery brought her story to center stage during a speech that she delivered at Edward Waters University as part of its celebration of Women’s History Month.

Her appearance was also part of EWU’s Stay Woke Distinguished Speaker Series. The series is intended to empower students while encouraging them to engage in social justice issues.

Before leaving the stage, Montgomery encouraged her audience to stay informed, engaged, and speak out to advocate for social justice. Another parting act by Montgomery was presentation of a $1,000 check to establish a scholarship fund for student-athlete Kyana Johnson, who plays for the EWU women’s basketball team. 

Montgomery, who has had a history of activism and fighting for social justice, was especially visible during a nation-wide protest over the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer in 2020. That year, she left the WNBA, collaborating with like-minded individuals to effect change and demonstrating the power of collective action.

Montgomery’s message last Wednesday was one that senior Akyma David could relate to. David, who also is Miss Edward Water University, said she left believing that her goals are attainable.

“As a student, having the chance to engage with and learn from activists and change-makers is truly significant,” David said. “It demonstrates that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve success. As an African American woman, it is empowering to see someone like her who can inspire and support us. 

“Many individuals doubt their own capabilities, but my advice to current and future Edward Waters University students is to stay true to your own experiences and not let others’ experiences sway your perception of what your journey at our institution should be.”

That stick-to-it attitude was the approach that Montgomery had when she decided to branch out. She recalled turning to LeBron James and his company, UNINTERRRUPTED for advice.

“They wanted to help me get to where I was trying to go, which was the ownership seat,” Montgomery said. “That’s why sometimes it does matter to first of all, stay woke, and it does matter to say what you feel and speak out. When you say it now somebody else that thinks the same way says ‘I’m with you, what do you need?’ ”.

Montgomery obviously delivered a speech that is in line with EWU’s intent when it decided on the Stay Woke Distinguished Speaker Series. Students left knowing that they have a platform for uplifting their voices in a way that fosters activism within the EWU community,” said President A. Zachary Faison Jr., Ph.D.

“Renee Montgomery’s presence at Edward Waters University serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of women’s leadership,” said Faison. “Her story resonates deeply with our university’s ethos of empowerment and social responsibility. As we honor Women’s History Month, let us heed Montgomery’s call to action, leveraging our collective voice to advocate for positive change and cultivate a community where every individual thrives.”