LeanIn.Org today launched #LeanInTogether, a public service campaign in partnership with the NBA and WNBA emphasizing how men benefit from equality and providing practical tips for men to do their part at home and work. The leagues created a PSA encouraging all men to "lean in." It includes appearances by Heat C Chris Bosh, Warriors G Stephen Curry, Hawks C Al Horford, Cavaliers F LeBron James, Raptors G Kyle Lowry, Heat G Dwyane Wade and Thunder G Russell Westbrook. WNBA players in the campaign include Storm G Sue Bird, Liberty F Swin Cash, Sky F Elena Delle Donne and Shock G Skylar Diggins (NBA). Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg, author of the book "Lean In: Women, Work, And The Will To Lead," is "counting on the NBA's appeal to connect with millions of sports-loving men who haven't read her book." LeanIn.org is "providing men with tips on how to help in brochures that will be available online as part of the campaign with the NBA" (AP, 3/5). Sandberg said the NBA was an ideal partner for the campaign because the league has had a "lot of great firsts for women." She said, "Forty percent of their league staff is women. Michele Roberts elected by the players to represent them as their union leader. You see referees on the court, you see (Spurs assistant coach) Becky Hammon, you see the NBA really leaning in. If these players speak out for equality then, if they set the right example, men will follow and that’s pretty exciting.” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said of participating in the program, "It was realizing that we’re in an incredibly competitive marketplace and that we want to draw the best employees. It’s not just about the women in the workplace, it’s about the men as well. We want to put them in an environment that is inclusive, that’s respectful, where they’re going to do the best work and that’s what drew me to this program" (“SportsCenter,” ESPN, 3/5).
