Social injustice and systemic racism have not only been key issues addressed by the Los Angeles Dodgers, but world as a whole. Last year the Dodgers joined the San Francisco Giants and other teams in boycotting games for a day.
Manager Dave Roberts, Mookie Betts, Clayton Kershaw and Kenley Jansen were among those to speak out against inequality. The likes of Cody Bellinger and Justin Turner later accompanied them and others to condemn racism and commit to funding various initiatives.
As bigotry unfortunately remains an issue, Roberts wrote an email to the entire Dodgers organization to address crimes involving Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders. His messaging was then publicly supported by the team.
“Over the last year, there has been a sharp increase in violence and hate crimes against Asian-Americans across the United States,” the Dodgers said in a statement.
“This bigotry and hatred has no place in our society and to be clear, the Dodger organization condemns this widespread xenophobic violence and intolerance. Such bullying is nothing short of cowardice.
“Besides Jackie Robinson, the Dodgers have a legacy of pioneering Asian All-Star players like Hideo Nomo (Japan), Chan-Ho Park (Korea), and Hong-Chih Kuo (Taiwan). In addition, the Dodgers have had more players of Asian ancestry than any other Major League Baseball team.
“Of course, we have an extremely diverse fan base fueled by the largest Asian American population in the United States. Dodger Stadium has always been a common ground for all. The Dodgers stand with every American who knows that our nation’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths.
“We are proud that the Dodgers family spans the globe and welcomes people of every background. We all have a responsibility to call out and act against racism, and to work toward a more just, equitable and loving nation – not only during moments of protest but always.”
Roberts pleased with response from Dodgers
In feeling moved to address current events, Roberts was thrilled by the feedback and responses to his email.
“I just think a lot of people felt heard and supported,” he said. “Their voice was kind of heard, and that was really important to me.”
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