Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Pro Athletes’ Unions Honor Jackie Robinson’s Lasting Legacy

Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Eight professional sports unions came together on Friday to pay tribute to legendary trailblazer Jackie Robinson, the first Black player in modern Major League Baseball. The unions, including the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) and the NWSL Players Association (NWSLPA), shared this statement:

“On this, the 75th anniversary of Jackie’s debut, it’s clear that the inclusion of Black athletes has raised the quality of play on the field….The courage and perseverance that Jackie Robinson displayed with his groundbreaking achievement should inspire us all to recommit ourselves to the quest for diversity, inclusion and equality in all occupations and walks of life.”