Real Talk, Real Strength: ATL Hawks and Kaiser Permanente Host Powerful Health Summit for Men of Color

Earlier today, I had the pleasure of witnessing something truly powerful. The Atlanta Hawks, in partnership with Kaiser Permanente, hosted their “Real Talk, Real Strength: Men of Color Health Summit” — and let me tell you, it was more than just a community event. It was a full-on movement of empowerment, connection, and wellness, right in the heart of State Farm Arena.

Nearly 100 men of color came together for a day designed to uplift, inspire, and get real about mental and physical health. From powerful conversations to personal reflections, the summit provided a much-needed safe space to prioritize wellness in all forms — mind, body, and spirit.

David Lee, Executive VP of External Affairs and Executive Director of the Hawks Foundation, said it best: “This summit represents a powerful step toward dismantling stigma, building trust, and equipping men of color with the knowledge, tools, and support they need…” That mission was in full effect all day long.

Things kicked off with an inspiring keynote from The Gathering Spot Co-Founder & CEO, Ryan Wilson, setting the tone for a day of honest conversations and big takeaways. The summit featured dynamic panels led by expert voices, including Dr. Aaron Cooper and Dr. Marcus Griffith from Kaiser Permanente, former Hawks star Kevin Willis, Phillip J. Koo of the Prostate Cancer Foundation, and others like Alvin A.B. Bailey, Kyle Walcott, Chef Scotley Innis, and even DJ EU. That lineup? Chef’s kiss.

Attendees had the chance to break out into small groups, share stories, and get real about the challenges and wins of prioritizing their health. And don’t think it stopped there — guests got a behind-the-scenes tour of the Hawks’ locker room, snapped pics courtside, and even got to shoot some hoops on the official court!

Participants didn’t leave empty-handed — they walked away with wellness goodies like soothing body care kits, custom tumblers, Bevel samples, and sleek tote bags to top it all off.

Kaiser Permanente’s Regional President, Corwin Harper, summed it up perfectly: “This event reflects our deep commitment to supporting the overall wellness of our communities.” And through this incredible partnership with the Hawks, they’re walking the walk — and doing it in style.

From food access to mental health, the Hawks and Kaiser Permanente have teamed up on some truly impactful programming since 2024. Today’s summit was yet another example of ATL showing up and showing out for the community.

For more on this transformative event and others like it, visit Hawks.com/community.