Wisconsin Badgers’ Uniforms To Include Black “W” On University Crest

When they return to action, the Wisconsin Badgers will wear a modified version of the university crest on their athletic uniforms to show solidarity with black and other underrepresented communities, school officials announced on Wednesday afternoon.

"There is plenty of work to do, but we are pleased to be able to show our support in a way important to our student-athletes"

When we return, our uniforms will include a UW crest logo with a black "W" in show of support, inclusion and unity#OnWisconsin https://t.co/gie7VVjdQp
— Wisconsin Badgers 😷 (@UWBadgers) July 15, 2020

“I have previously stated my commitment to taking meaningful steps involving issues of diversity and inclusion in our athletic department,” Wisconsin athletic director Barry Alvarez said in a statement. “There is plenty of work to do, but I am pleased we will be able to show our support in a way that is important to our student-athletes.”

The “W” on the university crest is typically white, but will now be black during the 2020-21 school year. A number of current and former student-athletes – including senior safety Madison Cone – wrote a letter earlier this month to Alvarez, chancellor Rebecca Blank and chief diversity officer Patrick Sims asking for the change.

Cone notably represents the Badgers on the newly-formed Big Ten Anti-Hate and Anti-Racism Coalition.

You say your an ally… show us! 💯 @UWMadison @UWBadgers pic.twitter.com/pLq7S9Tfoo
— Madison Cone (@Coney31island) July 2, 2020

“This is the first way the university’s athletes and the University of Wisconsin-Madison can show they are committed to creating an inclusive campus for all,” the letter said in part.

In addition putting the university crest on its uniforms, be it through a patch or helmet decal, Wisconsin also worked with student-athletes to create a black Motion “W” that will be used on select athletic apparel.

Photo courtesy of the University of Wisconsin-Madison.