[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 45 (Wednesday, April 16, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E675]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO JACKIE ROBINSON

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. MICHAEL R. McNULTY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 16, 1997

  Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to join with Representative 
Carrie Meek and others in commemorating the 50th anniversary of the day 
Jackie Robinson broke Major League Baseball's color barrier.
  As a ballplayer, Jackie Robinson set standards through both his 
superior athleticism and dignified grace. His unflinching commitment 
and determination to achieve set him apart from countless numbers of 
his peers.
  However, a look beyond pure statistics--6 National Pennants and 6 
seasons batting over .300, to name a couple--allows us to truly 
understand why Jackie Robinson is a hero to us all.
  Jackie Robinson was an American pioneer. His perseverance when all 
the odds were against him is certainly an inspiration. This strength of 
will is reflective of the true spirit of America. His personal 
sacrifice reflects his commitment to our society. Robert Kennedy once 
said: ``Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the 
lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny 
ripple of hope.'' America was formed and is continually transformed by 
these ``ripples of hope.'' Jackie Robinson was a ``ripple of hope'' for 
many Americans.
  Yet, we must never forget the times in which Jackie Robinson lived. 
Discrimination and dehumanization were societal norms of the 1940's and 
1950's. We must continually reflect on these ills, and admit past 
mistakes. This American conscience has always shaped our society for 
the better.
  People have said that Jackie Robinson never took a step backwards. A 
lot has changed in the 50 years since he first put on that Brooklyn 
Dodger cap, yet too much has remained the same. We must continually 
move forward, ensuring all Americans their rights. The first step is to 
recognize those individuals who have strived to make an impact. Jackie 
Robinson's impact is still being felt today.
  Therefore, I urge all the Members of this House, and all of my fellow 
Americans to remember Jackie Robinson as a great ballplayer, an 
inspirational American hero, and most important of all, an individual 
whose courage has touched the lives of millions.

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