[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 7 (Tuesday, January 12, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E35]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY'S UNDERGROUND RAILROAD MOVEMENT

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                          HON. DAVID A. TROTT

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 12, 2016

  Mr. TROTT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Michigan State 
University's commitment to racial equality in our country through their 
integration efforts for sports programs in the 1960s.
   In light of the College Football National Championship game last 
night, I want to take the time to remember another National Title game 
50 years ago. In 1966, segregation was widespread in our country. It 
was a time of great struggle and injustice for African Americans. 
Michigan State football, however, became a bastion for integration and 
equality. University President John Hannah and Head Coach Duffy 
Daugherty had a long history of providing academic and athletic 
opportunity to African Americans who were denied access in their home 
states. Daugherty spearheaded a recruitment network throughout southern 
states that became known as the Underground Railroad Movement. He 
sought out black players who were not allowed to play in their own 
states due to their race. His efforts culminated with the 1966 team, 
which included 20 black players, 11 starters, and was led by one of the 
only black quarterbacks among major colleges at the time, Jimmy Raye. 
Raye led the Spartans to win the National Title in 1966, which was a 
victory for MSU, and a victory for equality across America.
   The leadership shown by Michigan State University and the courage of 
the players marked an important advancement for society. Their actions 
proved a catalyst for other teams to expand their recruiting profiles, 
and Americans to expand their perspective. The barriers that were 
broken in Michigan State's programs marked an important step toward 
full integration of collegiate sports in 1972. On this 50th anniversary 
of their National Title win, I commend Michigan State University for 
their legacy of providing opportunity for all Americans, regardless of 
race.

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