The United States v. Jackie Robinson

The United States v. Jackie Robinson

Juvenile biography
I think most of us know about Jackie Robinson's role in
integrating Major League baseball. However, I think very few of us
know of an earlier stand he took for racial equality. That's the
topic of Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen's The United States v. Jackie Robinson.
"Jack Robinson grew up in Pasedena, California at a time when
the public pools were open to black children only one day a week--then
drained immediately afterward and refilled with fresh water for the
white children who swam the rest of the time."
Segregation was the law of the land back then. Everything from
drinking fountains to schools was effected. Even though Jack had huge
athletic talents racism dogged him. As a successful college athlete
he was bullied by opponants and even teammates. He became the first
UCLA athlete to ever letter in four sports. But his post college
prospects were dim. Professional sports welcomed only white athletes.
Then the United States entered World War II. Segregation was
alive and well in the armed forces. Black men putting their lives on
the line for their country were relegated to separate barracks.
In 1944 segregation was outlawed in the military. In theory
Jack could go where he wanted on army property. In reality not
everyone followed the law. This book tells readers what happened when
he sat in the middle of a bus and refused to move to the back.
On a personal note, Amber had a lovely birthday party attended by
family and friends. We had pizza and cake. Amber and Brian dressed
up as Scully and Mulder from X Files. Mostly we chilled and talked.
After people walked over to Adam and Asia's apartment to help them
pack the truck for their move to The Big City.
A great big shout out goes out to my wonderful older daughter whose
footsteps I'm following in academically.
jules hathaway


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