Major League Baseball (MLB) teams, including the Red Sox, Nationals, and A’s, joined the nationwide celebration of Juneteenth, marking the date when news of the end of slavery reached Texas.
With a series of special ceremonies, performances, and community events, these teams honored the significance of Juneteenth and recognized the journey towards racial equality.
Red Sox Host Special Juneteenth Commemoration
At Fenway Park, the historic home of the Boston Red Sox, the atmosphere was filled with excitement and unity. Ben Haith, the designer of the iconic red-and-blue Juneteenth flag, stood on the mound, waving his arms to pump up the crowd. Haith, accompanied by Black community leaders and Red Sox employees, wore special Juneteenth commemorative jerseys featuring his creation on the back.
Haith, who created the flag in 1979, expressed his joy, stating, “It feels like I’m living in a miracle.” He emphasized the positive changes at Fenway Park and how it has become a more inclusive space. The Red Sox, the last team in the MLB to integrate their roster, made a significant statement by participating in the Juneteenth celebrations.
Wide-ranging Celebrations across MLB
The commemoration of Juneteenth extended beyond Fenway Park. Various MLB teams organized special events to mark the occasion. The Oakland Athletics, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Washington Nationals were among those who contributed to the celebrations.
In Oakland, before the Athletics’ game against the Phillies, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” also known as the Black National Anthem, was performed. Similarly, the Diamondbacks hosted a workshop featuring former players for high school baseball players. The Buffalo Soldiers, an African-American Army unit, presented the colors to honor the occasion.
The Nationals organized a unique early afternoon commencement for their first game of the series against St. Louis, offering fans an opportunity to show their support for the team while simultaneously making a meaningful contribution. Fans who bought a special ticket package were gifted a Nationals Juneteenth T-shirt, and $5 from each purchase was donated to the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Historical Context and Personal Connection
For Ben Haith, the Juneteenth commemoration held personal significance. Growing up in Virginia, he learned about Juneteenth and its significance to the African American community.
Haith’s connection to the holiday was further reinforced by his aunt’s husband, whose name was June. He reflected on his experiences and the progress made, acknowledging that it hadn’t always been comfortable for him to visit Fenway Park due to instances of racial slurs.
Embracing Juneteenth
Juneteenth celebrations in MLB brought attention to the significance of the holiday and showcased the commitment of teams like the Red Sox, Nationals, and A’s to promote inclusivity and diversity.
The commemorative ceremonies, performances, and community events provided an opportunity to reflect on the journey towards racial equality and to honor the individuals who paved the way for progress.
As MLB continues to embrace the importance of commemorating Juneteenth, the league sets an example for others to follow in fostering an environment of equality and social change.
