FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 19, 2024
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Gov. Whitmer Signs Bipartisan Bill Uplifting Historic Accomplishments of Black Baseball Players in Michigan
LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation recognizing May 2 as Negro Leagues Day in Michigan, a significant move to honor the contributions and legacy of African American baseball players who played in the Negro Leagues.
"I am honored to sign this bipartisan bill to honor the history of Black baseball players and teams in Michigan,” said Governor Whitmer. "This league was not only a crucial part of baseball history but also a testament to strength resilience and talents of Black athletes who overcame significant barriers to play the game that they loved. By commemorating this day, we pay tribute to their legacy and ensure that their stories of perseverance continue to inspire future generations."
“As a Detroit native, but also as a Black man, I am particularly proud to see this day recognized in the state of Michigan,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “As one of the eight founding teams of the Negro Leagues, the Detroit Stars are a testament to the rich sports history of our city and state. This acknowledgement not only honors their legacy but also educates and inspires our communities about the resilience and achievements of these pioneering athletes.”
House Bill 4519, sponsored by state Representative Helena Scott (D-Detroit) honors the Negro Leagues, including the Detroit Stars which was one of the eight founding teams. Quickly establishing themselves as one of the best one of the league's best, the Detroit Stars finished just behind the Chicago American Giants in the inaugural 1920 season solidifying their reputation as major contenders on the field.
“I am immensely proud of the rich legacy of the Detroit Stars, one of the eight founding Negro Leagues, just as I am proud of my Uncle Ron, who is one of the oldest living Negro Leaguers,” said state Representative Helena Scott (D-Detroit). “Although Jackie Robinson is the name we know for integrating the baseball leagues, there were men like my Uncle Ron who played the game in the face of segregation, too. I get an immense feeling of admiration and pride when I think of how important the Negro Leagues were for Detroit’s Black families and the community. Now, every May 2, is Negro Leagues Day in Michigan. We salute and remember these players for breaking records and for making history in a league of their own.”
Other notable aspects of Detroit's Negro League history in Michigan include Hamtramck Stadium, which served as a home to Detroit Stars and the Detroit Wolves of the Major Negro Leagues in the 1930s. These teams’ talented players were heroes in the African American community. Hamtramck Stadium is historically significant as one of only five remaining Negro League home ballpark still in existence.
Amongst the notable Michiganders who played in the Negro Leagues were Cecil Kaiser, Melvin Duncan, George Wilson, Walter Owens, John W. Patterson, Willie Powell, and Johnny Walker. These players made significant contributions to the league, and their legacy continues to be celebrated.
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