Venus and Serena Williams are among the most successful women’s tennis players of all time. Their dominance in both singles and doubles categories propelled them to positions of incredible power and influence. However, despite their status, they are still very much involved in social causes. Venus Williams’ latest involvement is the Nina Simone Childhood Home Benefit Auction, which starts in a few days. In the buildup to the auction, Venus is doing all she can to promote it, and sister Serena is doing her bit as well.

Recently, Venus appeared in an eye-catching Paper Magazine spread. Serena Williams, being her supportive young sister, shared it on her Instagram to raise awareness ahead of the auction.

For Venus and Serena Williams, restoring Nina Simone’s childhood home is a priority

Eunice Kathleen Waymon, who went on to be known globally by her professional name, Nina Simone, was a huge musical influence on the Williams sisters. Both Venus and Serena still listen to her music. They also find inspiration in Simone’s civil rights activism. Unfortunately, Simone’s childhood home, which is situated in Tryon, North California, is in a state of disrepair.

To restore it, Venus is partnering with iconic artist Adam Pendleton. The pair are hopeful of raising $5 million. Other artists involved in the restoration project include the likes of Julie Mehretu, Cecily Brown, and Ellen Gallagher. Following the release of her epic look for Paper Magazine, Serena Williams wasted no time in spreading the word on Instagram.

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Venus said, “This moment is so important because her influence persists to this day, and her brilliance lives on and really transcends time and culture”. She also said, “Her legacy really has to be solidified, and made permanent and everlasting.”

Nina Simone continues to inspire Venus Williams every day Nina Simone’s civil rights activism gave a voice to the underrepresented black community in America. During Simone’s lifetime, the community was subject to rampant discrimination and abuse. If it weren’t for Simone’s strength and determination to shake things up in American society, people like Venus and Serena Williams may not have risen to the extent they did.

In her Paper Magazine interview, Venus echoed these feelings and praised Simone for breaking barriers, opening doors of opportunity, and sacrificing herself for the greater good of the black community. Let’s hope the auction is successful in restoring Simone’s childhood home and cementing her legacy.