New York Liberty guard Natasha Cloud has been outspoken about what she perceives as the U.S. government’s failure to act on critical issues affecting youth, particularly on banning child marriage. On Monday, Cloud used her social media platform X to challenge government officials for not passing legislation that would prohibit child marriage nationwide, highlighting the broader consequences on young girls’ rights.
Cloud also linked this legislative inaction to a growing threat against women’s voting rights, emphasizing that the protections granted under the Nineteenth Amendment appear undermined. Her tweets reflected frustration with political maneuvers, including plans for a vote in the House of Representatives that Cloud framed as detrimental to progress.
Concerns Raised About Future Generations’ Rights
The three-time WNBA All-Defensive Team player voiced deep concerns about the future impact of these legislative failures. She warned that allowing child marriage, especially at such young ages, signals regression in rights and protections for girls across the country.
“Did yall know that in 4 states in 2025 men are legally able to marry 14 year olds? We are literally dialing back the dial of progression. With the 19th amendment being under attack as well,” Cloud tweeted. “Your husbands want a ‘house’ vote. Guess who gets to make that. Like wtf is happening?”
“Our daughters will have less rights than us. That’s a failure to them & their futures,” Cloud posted on X.
As recently as 2018, child marriage was legally permitted in all 50 states, according to the news outlet The 19th. Since then, 16 states have enacted bans, but a comprehensive, nationwide prohibition remains absent.
Legislative Efforts to Combat Child Marriage Remain Stalled
In August 2024, the U.S. Senate introduced the Child Marriage Prevention Act of 2024, sponsored by Senator Richard Durbin of Illinois. This bill proposes creating a National Commission to Combat Child Marriage and offering incentives to states that impose bans on child marriage.
Despite being introduced over a year ago, the bill has made little progress within Congress, a reality highlighted by Cloud’s social media remarks expressing her dissatisfaction with the slow pace of change.
Natasha Cloud’s Support for Teammates Reflects Her Commitment On and Off the Court
Beyond activism, Cloud demonstrates resilience and loyalty in her role with the New York Liberty. Earlier this month, she defended teammate Sabrina Ionescu after Connecticut Sun guard Bria Hartley delivered a hard foul during a game. The fan group Liberty Lead publicly praised Cloud’s protective stance, which she acknowledged with a modest response on X.
“Yall know what it is,” she tweeted.
Cloud’s spirited defense of her teammates mirrors her passionate advocacy off the court. As the Liberty approach the end of their regular season, Cloud continues to solidify her importance to the team in her inaugural year with the franchise.