Equality in America

Equality in America
Gary A. House

When I was 11 or 12 years-old, I read every sports book that I could get my hands on.  I remember reading a book about Jackie Robinson of the Brooklyn Dodgers.  I was certainly aware how the Mr. Robinson helped transform the game of baseball into the game as we know it today.  Players of all races and ethnic groups are now welcome in the Major Leagues as it should be.

Today I went to see the movie "42" about Jackie Robinson's ordeal as the first black player in the major leagues.  Mr. Robinson must have been one of the strongest, most strong-willed persons ever put on earth.  He faced continuous hatred.  He constantly absorbed racial slurs.  While many a man would have broken under this pressure, Mr. Robinson stood tall.  Branch Rickey, owner of the Dodgers, gave Mr. Robinson the opportunity to change the game.  Mr. Rickey also gave Mr. Robinson the opportunity to start a change in race relations in America.  Mr. Rickey and Mr. Robinson deserve our praise for changing life in America.

It was fascinating watching Robinson's teammates grow to accept him not only as a player but as a human being.  Although most grew to accept him and even stand up for him, some did not.  There will always be that type of ignorance in the world.  We, in America, have made tremendous strides since the year 1947 when Mr. Robinson broke into the major leagues.

We cannot let a few that still harbor hatred and ignorance to affect the way we treat each other.  Skin color does not matter.  What matters is how we love our neighbors period.  What matters is that everyone be given an equal chance.

Please take the time to go see "42."  We owe it to Mr. Robinson and Mr. Rickey to know this story.