KAREN KENYATTA RUSSELL
Speaker, Voting Activist, Daughter of NBA Legend Bill Russell
Hello
My name is Karen Kenyatta Russell. I help people, teams, and organizations win like my dad NBA icon Bill Russell.
I'm a Harvard-trained attorney, Democratic voting strategist, and public speaker.
Looking for an inclusive leadership coach, mentoring advocate, or Black History speaker? Contact me here. Or join my mailing list.
From 08/30/2023 Boston Globe article
"When Black celebrities came to Boston for sporting events or performances, he insisted that they stay with him in Reading rather than potentially face discrimination at the city’s hotels and restaurants.
“Weirdly, that turned into this incredible childhood,” Karen Russell said. “We got to meet people based on the fact that they didn’t feel safe in Boston. Our house turned into a hub of cultural activity.”
Muhammad Ali taught the children to box. Roberta Flack played their piano. Maya Angelou wrote a poem about Karen. The list went on, from Wilt Chamberlain and Johnny Mathis to baseball stars Roberto Clemente and Bob Gibson.
When the Celtics drafted or signed Black players, Russell usually housed them until they could find a place to live. He also hosted team Christmas parties.
“There was a reason our house was called ‘the Russell Hotel,’ ” Jacob Russell said.
Photo:David Ryder
TEDxOverlake - Karen Russell - Modern Mentoring: The Good, The Bad and The Better
Growing up with Privilege and Prejudice
IN 1966, MY FATHER AND HIS co-author dedicated his first autobiography, ''Go Up for Glory.'' Today, in 1987, having just received my Doctor of Laws degree, I wonder if I can fulfill the dreams of my parents' generation. They struggled for integration, they marched for peace, they ''sat in'' for equality. I doubt they were naive enough to think they had changed the world, but I know they hoped my generation would be able to approach life differently. In fact, we have been able to do things my parents never thought possible. But that is not enough.