Jackie Robinson was known for many triumphs. He was an army veteran who served his country in the Second World War, where he endured savage horrors overseas.
And despite being an honorably discharged veteran, Robinson went on to endure fathomless racism when he returned Stateside.
Robinson didn’t necessarily think he’d be a baseball player, much less one of the greats. But what he did know was a history of abuse that was targeted at the marginalized black community. Robinson received accolades for his athleticism in the world of sports as he played basketball and football before donning the number ‘42’ on the back of his Brooklyn Dodgers’ uniform.
Starting his baseball career as a Monarch in the Negro Leagues, Robinson would eventually play for the Dodgers, despite facing blatant racism from fans, young and old and especially from other ballplayers—including his own teammates.
Despite all odds, Robinson endured and it is in his spirit that New Yorkers and to the larger extent, the world, should never forget the spirit and tenacity of one of the greatest athletes to break the color barrier and play in the Majors.
The month of April saw Robinson being celebrated with back-to-back MLB games where every player donned the Number 42 on their backs and it’s with that that I am proud to be a New Yorker.
