3x national champ Dawn Staley comes forward in support of Sonya Massey who was shot by a police officer

South Carolina HC Dawn Staley has never been one to shy away from using her platform to advocate for justice. Known for being vocal and committed to social issues, Staley has always used her voice to address important matters beyond the basketball arena.

On Wednesday, the three-time national champion raised her voice in support of Sonya Massey via X/Twitter.

"Why?!! #SonyaMassey," Staley tweeted.

Massey, a Springfield, Illinois resident, was tragically shot and killed by a sheriff on July 6 in her home. According to the reports, Massey called the police because she thought someone was trying to intrude into her home. Two policemen arrived and they had a brief discussion before one started shooting Massey in the face.

The paramedics arrived shortly after and took her to a nearby hospital, where she was declared dead. The officer has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder.

"Sonya Massey, a beloved mother, friend, daughter, and young Black woman, should be alive today," President Biden said. "Sonya’s death at the hands of a police officer reminds us that all too often Black Americans face fears for their safety in ways many of the rest of us do not," he added.

Vice President Kamala Harris described the footage of the shooting, released by the authorities, as 'disturbing'.

"Sonya Massey deserved to be safe. The disturbing footage released yesterday confirms what we know from the lived experiences of so many — we have much work to do to ensure that our justice system fully lives up to its name," Harris wrote on X.

Dawn Staley spreads message of social well-being with latest partnership for children's hospital donation

Dawn Staley, a four-time Naismith Coach of the Year, spread smiles at Prisma Prisma Health Children's Hospital-Midlands when she teamed up with Aflac, a health insurance company, in early June.

Staley was thrilled to bring joy to kids at the hospital by gifting them a special Alfac Duck and helping to raise awareness about sickle cell disease.

"What an inspirational day visiting the kiddos at Prisma Health," Dawn Staley wrote in her Instagram post. "Thank you Aflac Duck for a second opportunity to bring a little comfort and joy to these amazing children with 'My Special Aflac Duck'! This cause hits close to home….I appreciate the chance to help raise awareness of sickle cell disease."

Dawn Staley flew to Paris for the Summer Olympics alongside First Lady Jill Biden. Staley, known for her impressive track record of winning gold medals at the Olympics, will be accompanying Biden as a member of the presidential delegation for the opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympic Games this Friday.