Do you remember when Shelomi entered the transfer portal and decided to move away from Colorado? Deion Sanders’ first reaction to that was calling it “stupid.” That was because his daughter didn’t have offers from any program back then. Even so, Shelomi’s mother, Pilar, stood by her, saying, “Why should she be called stupid for finally taking a stand, putting those big girl pants on, and starting to make a way for herself?” Shelomi is an independent woman, and a large part of the reason is having someone like Pilar to look up to. But you can’t help but think Tracey Edmonds played a part, too.

Tracey Edmonds and Deion Sanders were in a relationship for 12 years – since they first met in 2012 at a party for one of Edmonds’ upcoming films. But last year, ending a four-year engagement, they called it quits. However, for those 12 years, Edmonds was a huge part of the Sanders family and developed a relationship with his kids. So, when Shelomi announced she’d be transferring to Alabama A&M, the 57-year-old wrote, “Congratulations Shelomi! You will be GREAT there!” 

It takes a lot to be a strong, independent woman, and football fans, especially Coach Prime fans, know Tracey Edmonds’ journey to reach this point in her life. In a 2013 interview, she said, “I’ve always been an independent woman and wanted to be sure I was okay financially, regardless of what happened in my personal life.” Having always advocated for women’s empowerment and making efforts to help the cause, an event hosted by the National Urban League solidified what Edmonds has stood for her entire life.

On July 6, the NUL honored Tracey Edmonds at the 5 Annual Women in Harmony Awards Luncheon in New Orleans. With the theme, A Celebration of Unity, Purpose, and Courage, the event paid tribute to outstanding Black women who lead, create, and transform the world. Tracey Edmonds described what the celebration stands for: “Women In Harmony is all about sisterhood. It’s all about just opening doors for each other, keeping each other lifted, being there when one falls, being there to pick each other up, and just rising together.” 

Speaking of opening doors for others, Tracey Edmonds has done her part and continues to do so. As the CEO of Edmonds Entertainment Group Inc. and Alrightnow.com, she has produced numerous television, film, and digital media projects highlighting important social issues. Her work extends beyond the entertainment industry; she is also a dedicated member of the National Board of Directors for the Producers Guild of America, where she has championed diversity and inclusion.

Edmonds has used her platform to advocate for women’s empowerment through various initiatives. She founded Alright TV, a family and faith-oriented web network focusing on uplifting content promoting positive values and social change. Her efforts have consistently aimed to create opportunities for women and foster a supportive community where women can thrive. That feeling of someone looking out for you is precisely what Tracey Edmonds felt as she attended the luncheon.

After the event, the 57-year-old posted a video on Instagram from the gathering, writing, “I am SO grateful to the @naturbanleague for honoring me. It was such a spectacular event and WHAT A BLESSING to feel all the LOVE and SISTERHOOD in the room! I thank EVERYONE who was there for sharing the beautiful day with me! I love Y’all! Your energy was just incredible and I left SO FULL! 🙏🏽🙌🏽” 

The NUL honored three other women besides Edmonds: Judge Faith Jenkins, Lisa Price, and Bevy Smith, who have all continued immensely to uplift others. As Tracey Edmonds continues to work toward women’s empowerment, so does Deion Sanders. Even after their split, it seems that Sanders and Edmonds still value the same things, especially when it comes to women’s empowerment.

Colorado opens up a world-class women’s clinic

Just last week, Deion Sanders launched a new initiative called the Colorado Women’s Clinic, aimed at promoting the well-being and empowerment of women involved in the Colorado football program. Introduced on June 25, this clinic is part of Sanders’ broader effort to ensure women are respected and supported within the athletic community. Sanders has always been vocal about his respect for women, stating, “One thing I don’t condone is disrespect for a woman,” and has made it clear that any form of abuse or disrespect towards women will not be tolerated within his program.

Designed to honor the contributions of women within the football program, the initiative includes educational sessions, support groups, and networking opportunities, providing women with resources and a platform to voice their concerns and experiences. This commitment to women’s empowerment echoes the values that Tracey Edmonds has advocated throughout her career, suggesting that her influence may have played a role in shaping Sanders’ perspectives on women’s rights and empowerment.