The City Council will celebrate “Metta World Peace Day” at Los Angeles City Hall next week, honoring the former Lakers star and mental health advocate.
The recognition follows a resolution introduced by Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez to designate May 15 as “Metta World Peace Day” in the city.
World Peace — who was born Ron Artest — was a key member of the Lakers’ 2010 championship team and scored 20 points in the decisive Game 7 of the NBA Finals, including a late 3-pointer that helped secure the title.
During postgame interviews, he drew national attention by thanking his psychiatrist, a moment widely credited with helping reduce stigma around mental health care.
Since his playing career, World Peace, 46, has become an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness, encouraging people to seek help and speak openly about mental health challenges, according to Soto-Martinez.
“Mental health affects all of us. But too often, people don’t talk about it,” World Peace said. “I want to send a clear message that it’s okay to go to therapy, to ask for help, and to take care of yourself.”
Soto-Martinez said the recognition aligns with Mental Health Awareness Month and is intended to highlight the importance of mental health support.
“As someone who goes to therapy myself, I know how critical it is to care for your mental health,” Soto-Martinez said in a statement. “Having a role model like Metta speaking openly about his journey helps break that stigma and encourages people to seek help.”
City officials said the May 15 event will include a presentation honoring World Peace and appearances by people connected to his life and career.