Sixty-three years ago today at Ebbets Field, Jackie Robinson made his debut as a Brooklyn Dodger. At his first game, 26,000 fans, more than half of them Black, saw the Dodgers beat the Boston Braves 5-3 on their way to the National League pennant.
Baseball fans remember this day as the beginning of a series of events culminating in the 1955 World Series triumph over the hated Yankees. Everyone else recognizes the symbolism that, in a country where an African-American was made to use separate drinking fountains in much of the country, Jackie Robinson became a sensation. Facing enormous hostility, he nonetheless played well, becoming renowned among other thigns for stealing home. Think about that. Unlike stealing other bases, the pitcher is facing home, is already poised to throw the ball there. Robinson would get there first.
Baseball's back and that means so are the political issues that we at JSpot love to discuss in connection with our national pastime, like unions, racism, and religious freedom in the workplace. We can thank President Bush for succesfully opening the season with a resounding oomp. On sunday night he got the "raw emotion" of the fans (his words) at the Nats' home opener, who, DC insiders all, have a pretty resounding take on his performance as our fearless leader.
Sixty-three years ago today at Ebbets Field, Jackie Robinson made his debut as a Brooklyn Dodger. At his first game, 26,000 fans, more than half of them Black, 
