On January 19, 2026, we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr., Day. Dr. King spent his life fighting for fair treatment and equal rights for African Americans. He used many tools in his mission for civil rights including organizing boycotts, protests, and marches. He believed sports had a role in the struggle for civil rights.
Photo Credit: Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division, NYWT&S Collection, [LC-USZ62-111165]
Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in baseball with the Brooklyn Dodgers.
Jackie Robinson was the first African American to play Major League Baseball. Dr. King formed a deep friendship with him. They often sought each other’s advice. Before Robinson, African Americans had to play baseball in a separate league. Towards the end of his baseball career, Robinson began to speak out about civil rights. Some people didn’t think athletes should be involved in the civil rights movement. Dr. King disagreed. He noted that Robinson had worked hard to desegregate [end a separation based on race] baseball. He had every right to speak out about desegregating other parts of American life.
King befriended and advised other athletes including Muhammed Ali and several African American Olympic track stars. King also had many other allies in Major League Baseball. King mentored a young student-athlete at Morehouse College named Donn Clendonon. He would later play baseball for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Roberto Clemente, a Pirates teammate of Clendonon’s known for his charity work, became a close ally of King.
King was assassinated shortly before the opening day of the baseball season in 1968. The Pirates convinced Major League Baseball to delay the start of the season for two days of mourning King.
Photo Credit: U.S. National Archives and Records Administration [6802718]
On Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, many sports leagues hold events in Dr. King’s honor.
Sports organizations and athletes continue to pay tribute to Dr. King today. Major League Baseball is not in season in January. However, the National Basketball Association is in season and will televise games in celebration of King, starting with a match in Atlanta, King’s hometown. College basketball, the National Football League, and the National Hockey League will also hold games and events in Dr. King’s honor.
What Do You Think? Do sports have a special meaning for you? Why or why not?
Photo Credit: J.D.S/Shutterstock
