SUMMARY
- Coco Gauff, like her grandmother, is a strong advocate for social justice, particularly supporting the Black Lives Matter movement.
- Gauff's speech in June 2020 emphasized the need for collective action and empathy, echoing the values passed down by her grandmother, Yvonne Lee Odom.
Coco Gauff had taken a stance on important social issues much like her grandmother many decades ago. Gauff, the 19-year-old tennis sensation whose stellar performance at the 2023 US Open brought her the first Grand Slam title, is known to have staunchly supported the Black Lives Matter movement, shaped by the role played by her grandmother.
In June 2020, amidst the resurgence of the “Black Lives Matter” movement, Coco Gauff delivered a moving speech that echoed her grandmother’s unwavering commitment to social justice. Gauff lamented the persistence of racial discrimination despite her grandmother’s efforts decades ago, underscoring the need for collective action and empathy towards her community.
My speech at the peaceful protest in my hometown of Delray Beach, Florida. #blacklivesmatter pic.twitter.com/Jeyswzt7n5
— Coco Gauff (@CocoGauff) June 4, 2020
In her speech, Gauff passionately urged, “We must first love each other no matter what… we need to take action… you need to use your voice.” Yvonne Lee Odom, Gauff’s grandmother, had emerged as a trailblazer in her own right during the era of racial discrimination in the 1960s.
Reflecting on her grandmother’s impact, Coco Gauff remarked, “She’s probably ‘the’ sole or one of the main reasons why I use my platform…why I feel so comfortable speaking out.” Renowned newscaster Robin Roberts fondly recalled her encounter with Yvonne Lee Odom, describing it as a profound moment and the driving force behind Gauff‘s role in supporting the black community.
One of your most memorable moments covering tennis?@RobinRoberts: “Coco Gauff” 🫶 pic.twitter.com/eofkA4qlXJ
— Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) February 17, 2024
Gauff emphasized her grandmother’s enduring legacy while stating, “Her leading the way that she is… is something that I take inspiration from.” Through her remarkable journey, Odom continues to inspire not only her granddaughter, Coco Gauff, but also many others, leaving an indelible mark on the fight for equality for black lives. Let’s find out more about her.
Coco Gauff’s grandmother and role model, Yvonne Lee Odom, championed equality
Yvonne Lee Odom, Coco Gauff’s grandmother, led an extraordinary life marked by resilience and courage. As a teacher for the majority of her career, Odom dedicated herself to shaping young minds. However, it was her pivotal role in integrating an all-white public school in Delray Beach during the 1960s that truly distinguished her as a catalyst for equality and change.
My feature story on Yvonne Lee Odom, Coco Gauff’s trailblazing grandmother, is airing Monday, Sept 25 at 6:33a, 8:33a, and 4:50p via 91.3fm, @WLRN South Florida’s NPR station.
Odom, a classroom teacher for 45 years, desegregated public schools in Delray Beach. pic.twitter.com/6qSMZPqqbJ
— Wilkine Brutus (@wilkinebrutus) September 25, 2023
As the first black person to integrate Seacrest High School, Odom confronted racial injustice head-on, setting a powerful example of resilience and compassion. Her legacy extends far beyond the tennis credentials of her family, as evidenced by her selection for the Champions of Equity luncheon panel in Florida. A distinguished educator, Odom stands as a testament to her unwavering commitment to equity and justice.
