Celebrating Jackie Robinson Day

 

On April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson became the first African American to play Major League Baseball in the modern era and achieved Hall of Fame status. He later became the first African American to hold an officer-level position at a major corporation, served as an advisor to top politicians, actively promoted economic empowerment by co-founding a bank and a housing development company, and of course was a key figure in advancing equal justice and first-class citizenship from the 1950s until his death in 1972. Hailed a “…freedom rider before freedom rides,” Robinson’s name has become synonymous with breaking barriers.

Jackie Robinson Day is a traditional event which occurs annually on April 15 in Major League Baseball (MLB), commemorating and honoring the day Jackie Robinson made his major league debut. Celebrated at MLB ballparks, on that one day, all players, coaches, and managers on both teams, and the umpires, wear Robinson’s uniform number, 42.

The Jackie Robinson Museum celebrates the enduring legacy of one of the most important Americans of the 20th century, chronicling his trailblazing achievements against the backdrop of United States history. Invoking Robinson’s role as a champion for racial, social, and economic equality, the Museum’s programming places an emphasis on dialogue around critical issues that continue to challenge our society.

We at the Cathedral were excited to participate in a group outing to the Jackie Robinson Museum in December of 2023, graciously hosted by our own La’Tonya Johnson, current Chair of the Bishop George E. Councell Memorial Golf Outing Committee and former Senior Warden of our Cathedral. La’Tonya is the Vice President and Chief Operating officer of the Museum.

The flyer in our newsletter showcases the events of Jackie Robinson weekend that will be featured at the Museum, including fun-filled events for fans of all ages featuring special museum tours, film screenings, hands-on activities, games, and more! The Museum will be open for special hours 11AM – 6PM on Monday, April 15. For more information, you can go to www.jackierobinsonmuseum.org

 

Your Friend and Dean,

 

 

 

 

The Very Rev. René R. John, Dean