Celebrating Jackie Robinson Day

15 April 2013 - On this date in 1997, the number 42 was officially retired from Major League Baseball. This was in recognition of the amazing achievements and heartbreaking struggles of the great Jackie Robinson.

On opening day in the year 1947, Jackie Robinson became the first African American man to play for a Major League Baseball team. He was an instant success, but faced daily instances of racism and hatred from fans and players alike because of the colour of his skin. By breaking the "colour barrier", Jackie showed Brooklyn Dodgers fans, and people around all of North America, that no one should be judged based on the way they look, rather that it is our actions that define us. Clearly, there is still racism in our world today, but we are a much different place than we were when schools, workplaces, and even public spaces were segregated by colour.

Today, every major league player will wear the number 42 on their jersey, and no one will have their names printed on the back. This is a symbol of recognition and solidarity on the part of the league, and it is a beautifully simple way to honour such a remarkable person.