MACON, Ga. – The Mercer University athletic department has announced the formation of the Mobilizing Athletics for Diversity and Equality (M.A.D.E.). The group will examine areas in which systemic racism is perpetuated and seek actionable solutions for long-term sustainable change at Mercer.
 
"With all that is happening in the world, now more than ever, we need to create and maintain a culture of unity, mutual respect and inclusion," stated Director of Athletics Jim Cole. "The meaning and focus of M.A.D.E. is to help educate and strengthen the talents of our Mercer family to create a better tomorrow. Under the guidance of M.A.D.E., we can be a positive and lasting change for Mercer, for Middle Georgia and the larger country."
 
M.A.D.E.'s mission is to help eradicate Systemic Oppression towards people of color. We will use "Education" and "Action" as powerful tools in this fight that has decimated too many families for centuries. Together, we will be relentless in the pursuit of diversity, equality, and inclusion of people regardless of skin color, gender, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status. We stand in solidarity with our student-athletes, coaches, faculty, staff, university and community to abolish all acts of racial injustice.
 
"We have the responsibility to use our platforms to encourage change and bring awareness of systematic oppression towards people of color," remarked M.A.D.E. Chairman Kim Lewis.
 
M.A.D.E. is made up of eight members of the Mercer athletic staff and is led by Chairman Lewis from the men's basketball team. The co-Chairman is Sydni Means from the women's basketball staff. Other members include: Kaitlyn Cresencia (women's basketball), David A. Cole (football), John Russ (football), Roosevelt Lofton (track and field), Megan Curry (softball) and Brian Gerrity (MAF).