Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

Date of Degree

6-2024

Document Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

M.A.

Program

Liberal Studies

Advisor

Thomas Kessner

Subject Categories

African American Studies | American Popular Culture | History

Keywords

Integration, Jim Crow, Racism, Commonality, Sports

Abstract

After World War II, even though many African Americans served their country, policies of segregation were rampant throughout the United States of America. The aim of this Capstone is two-fold. First, to shed light on the men who followed the path of Jackie Robinson and give them their due. The most appropriate way to convey my research of these four athletes was by putting them all in the same fictional setting and discussing their trials and tribulations that made them the men they were in their day. Second, I want to highlight the many things I found in my research that these four athletes have in common. I highlight the differences throughout the capstone, specifically how they have played different sports in separate decades. My capstone project is creative storytelling of the lived experiences of four African American athletes who endured segregation and racism and whose sacrifice ultimately caused the four most popular sports leagues to integrate. The project's primary focus is the stage where the four athletes played professionally. Within that time frame, I discuss withholding of team benefits – such as access to hotel lobbies, bars, and swimming pools – racial incidents on the field, and career achievements. Today, more than ever, it is essential to tell the stories of underrepresented figures such as Nat Clifton, Kenny Washington, and Willie O’Ree. Their stories offer a blueprint for using the past to establish a better future. Given America’s harsh treatment of these figures and their communities, we owe them nothing less than to tell their stories.

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