The bill signing was timed to coincide with the celebration of Juneteenth. It commemorates the day news of the Emancipation Proclamation and the end of the Civil War was delivered to Galveston-Texas. Whitmer says celebrating Negro Leagues Day recognizes the injustice of segregated sports but also players’ accomplishment on the field.
She signed the bill at the historic stadium that served as the home of the Detroit Stars and the Detroit Wolves.
“We acknowledge players who made history and honor their memories. Everyone deserves to play and every story deserves to be told and remembered.”
Major League Baseball now recognizes Negro League statistics and records set by players.
