On June 7, 1957, Howard University honored Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Jackie Robinson with honorary Doctor of Laws degrees. Their connection, strengthened by Robinson breaking MLB's color barrier in 1947, was further underscored by their collaboration at Civil Rights rallies. King praised Robinson and fellow Dodgers for their implications in advocating for equality. Robinson had also received the Spingarn Medal for civil rights advocacy a year prior. The Dodgers honor Robinson through traditions like Jackie Robinson Day, signifying his lasting impact on both baseball and civil rights.
King once commended Branch Rickey for his support and commitment to establishing equality for all, and he thanked Don Newcombe, Roy Campanella and Robinson for helping inspire change.
The Spingarn Medal has been awarded annually since 1915 to honor 'the man or woman of African descent and American citizenship who shall have made the highest achievement during the preceding year or years in any honorable field.'
In 2021, Dave Roberts began a Dodgers tradition of gathering the team, front office members and other personnel in front of the Jackie Robinson statue in the center field plaza of Dodger Stadium to celebrate Jackie Robinson Day.
After his playing career ended, the Hall of Famer and Baptist minister would often appear together at Civil Rights rallies - including the March on Washington - as well as fundraising events and demonstrations.
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