By LaDawn Sullivan

In football, one mantra reigns supreme: protect the football. Coaches drill this into their players because turnovers – whether from fumbles, interceptions, or failing to convert on fourth down – can derail even the best teams. No matter how much ground you’ve gained, losing the ball can shift momentum and put you on the defensive.
As the daughter of Big Jim Sullivan, a former NFL defensive lineman for the Atlanta Falcons and Green Bay Packers, I honestly come by my football knowledge. Growing up, I learned how much discipline, strategy, and hard work go into not just winning games but protecting what matters most. And those same gridiron lessons translate powerfully to life.
For Black communities, the drive toward equity and opportunity often mirrors a football game. Every yard of progress – whether in education, wealth-building, or community leadership -- is hard-fought. But systemic barriers act like turnovers, forcing communities to regroup and fight for every inch.
Turnovers come in many forms:
The Fumble: Economic disinvestment pulls resources out of Black communities, leaving schools underfunded and businesses vulnerable. When resources are stripped, progress slips through our fingers.
The Interception: Advocacy efforts for equity are undermined by policies or systems designed to preserve the status quo, redirecting progress in the wrong direction.
The Failed Fourth Down: When growth opportunities arise but lack of funding or resources means they can’t be seized, it’s like turning the ball over on downs.
The key to success is clear: we must protect the football. For Black communities, this means safeguarding progress, investing in sustainable solutions, and building resilience to overcome systemic challenges.
That’s where the Black Resilience in Colorado (BRIC) Fund comes in with a strategic and collaborative game plan. BRIC serves as a coach and teammate, helping Black-led organizations hold onto the ball and drive toward equity. It’s not just about recovery after turnovers - it’s about equipping communities with the tools and strategies to protect their progress and keep moving forward.
For example:
When a community program fumbles due to a loss in funding, BRIC provides resources and support to aid recovery and provide stability.
When inequitable policies intercept advocacy efforts, BRIC amplifies its voices through community-led partnerships and coalitions to reclaim and retain possession of community progress.
When leaders face a fourth-and-long situation—big opportunities but limited capacity — BRIC ensures they have the support to convert and keep the drive alive.
Progress, like football, is never a straight march downfield. The game is full of challenges designed to push Black communities back. But with BRIC providing a solid playbook and vital support, these communities can hold tight to their progress, recover from setbacks, and continue advancing toward equity -- Touchdown!
Protecting the football isn’t just about avoiding turnovers—it’s about controlling the game. It’s about ensuring that every yard gained builds toward a victory, every setback fuels resilience, and every community member feels part of a championship team. With BRIC in the huddle, Black communities can protect the football and score big for equity and justice.
Every great team needs committed players and supporters. You can be part of the movement to protect progress and build strong, equitable Black communities in Colorado. Visit bricfund.org to learn more, donate, or get involved. Together, we can protect the football and drive toward lasting change!
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