Every third Monday of January is recognized as Martin Luther King Jr. Day in celebration of his birthday, which is Jan. 15. The federal holiday is a marquee date on the NBA calendar, but King’s impact and legacy transcends that and sports as a whole.
Los Angeles Dodgers part-owner Magic Johnson has been among those to recognize King, express his gratitude and remind of the importance of justice and equality for all.
The Dodgers and King have been intertwined through Jackie Robinson, who famously broke MLB’s color barrier on April 15, 1947. Robinson and King simultaneously received honorary doctorates from Howard University, and were together for the March on Washington.
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.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a perfect time to honor, remember and keep in mind that his mission still stands true today. He fearlessly led the charge to improve the lives of African-Americans in this country and for his sacrifice, we are forever grateful.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 17, 2022
We must not let his work go in vain. People of color are deserving of respect and dignity. As we continue to make strides towards justice for all, we carry his legacy on our shoulders. The job is not done.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 17, 2022
Today, we remind ourselves of his dream for justice as one nation, moving hand in hand, with courage and love. As we move forward, I challenge each of you to stand up in the face of inequality and injustice. In the words of Dr. King “the time is always right to do what is right.*
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 17, 2022
Today, we remember and honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose unwavering efforts for civil rights inspired so many. #MLKDay pic.twitter.com/MAIALI9uJO
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) January 17, 2022
Among other artifacts on display at the King Center is a letter Robinson wrote to the civil rights leader in October 1962 after accepting a position with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference.
Martin Luther King Jr. Brotherhood recognized Roberts
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts was named the recipient of the 2021 Brotherhood Award, which was presented to him by the Martin Luther King Jr. Brotherhood.
“The Martin Luther King Jr. Brotherhood Celebration Breakfast is a Los Angeles institution, and I’m honored to receive the Brotherhood Award and share the stage with two dear friends and community leaders – Sharon Robinson and Stedman Graham,” Roberts said at the time.
“I’ve long admired The YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles’ mission and impact, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to join them in celebrating Dr. King’s legacy in our community and beyond.”
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