On June 7, 1957, Howard University awarded honorary degrees of Doctor of Laws to the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and recently-retired Brooklyn Dodgers infielder Jackie Robinson.
The Dodgers and King have been intertwined through Robinson, who famously broke MLB’s color barrier on April 15, 1947.
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.
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.
One year prior to receiving his honorary degree from Howard University, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People awarded Robinson the Spingarn Medal for his strong support of civil rights initiatives. King earned the honor the following year.
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.”
Dodgers celebrate at Jackie Robinson statue
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.
Roberts led another contingent for the 75th anniversary of the Dodgers icon breaking the color barrier, and in 2023 the Chicago Cubs joined them in recognition of the momentous moment in MLB history.
Campanella steals home plate
Also on this day in Dodgers history, Roy Campanella stole home plate against the St. Louis Cardinals on June 7, 1954.
Campanella pulled off the rare feat in the 12th inning of a 7-5 win for Brooklyn at Sportsman’s Park.
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