Atlanta Hawks
Diversity & Inclusion
The Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena are committed to being a valued community asset that champions diversity, equity, and inclusion at all levels for those we entertain and employ. We focus on driving that commitment through Voter Access, Economic Empowerment, and Community Partnerships. Within the city of Atlanta, a melting pot of different backgrounds and beliefs, our organization strives to be a reflection of the various walks of life that call this great city home. We will always foster an environment that embraces all communities with equality and respect, and engages the Atlanta community in positive ways regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation/gender identity, age, ability, or socio-economic status.
Pillars of Commitment
Voter
Access
We are committed to ensuring that residents in our neighborhood have a safe and secure place to vote. We will continue to provide voter education resources and encourage all citizens that are of legal age to use their voice at the polls.
Economic
Empowerment
We are committed to providing opportunities for minorities to wholeheartedly pursue entrepreneurship and for minority-owned businesses to thrive in the marketplace.
Community
Partnerships
We are committed to be a resourceful partner and neighbor to the citizens of Atlanta. Through programming targeted to the underserved community, we will ensure that our alliances continue to provide impactful results and meaningful experiences.
D&I Initiatives and Programming
As part of its commitment to be a civic asset, in 2014 the Hawks became the first team in professional sports to hire a Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer and in 2015 launched a Diversity & Inclusion Council to strengthen its ties within the community. The Hawks also created MOSAIC (Model of Shaping Atlanta through Inclusive Conversations) bringing together more than 300 influential Atlanta residents to network on the role sports leaders play in diversity, have become an annual participant in the city’s PRIDE Parade and were one of the first NBA teams to build a sensory-inclusive room inside of their venue.
Now under the leadership of Hawks & State Farm Arena Chief People, Diversity & Inclusion Officer Camye Mackey, the team recently announced plans to grow its commitment over the next decade with a $11 million investment, including hiring a newly-created VP of D&I Programming position to expand on its current award-winning programming.
MOSAIC
MODEL OF SHAPING ATLANTA THROUGH INCLUSIVE CONVERSATIONS. MOSAIC brings together Atlantans to engage in conversations and develop solutions on the role that sports leaders play in advancing inclusion in local communities. The latest event focused on “allyship” and the importance of championing marginalized communities.
Courageous Conversations
Courageous Conversations is an internal forum for employees to freely discuss current events and issues shaping the city of Atlanta and our nation. Past topics have included homelessness in, the pursuit of racial justice, trust between the community and the institutions that serve them, and volunteerism.
State Farm Arena: A Sensory Inclusive Venue
In 2019 State Farm Arena was recognized by KultureCity as the Sensory Inclusive Venue of the Year. A new Sensory Inclusion Room was created at the arena to improve the staff’s ability to assist and accommodate guests with sensory processing needs.
Atlanta Pride Parade
The Atlanta Hawks were the first professional sports team in Atlanta to enter a float in Atlanta’s Annual Pride Parade, having marched and participated in the festivities since 2015. The organization also serves as a sponsor and is known to have a float fully equipped with a DJ to keep the party going. The team’s involvement is a part of their continued commitment to the LGBTQ+ community.
Hawks Cultural Theme Nights
Every Season the Hawks celebrate different cultures and experiences through their theme nights. These themes include: the MLK Day Game, HBCU Night, Hispanic Heritage Night, Lunar New Year Game, and Pride Night.
Our Partners
