I had practiced with the team
â
I had practiced with the team,
and the first scheduled game was with the University of Missouri.
They made it quite clear to the Army that
they would not play a team with a black player on it.
Instead of telling me the truth,
the Army gave me leave to go home.
â
Meaning
This quote exposes the cruelty of segregation by showing how institutions hid discrimination instead of confronting it honestly. Prejudice was enforced through cowardice.
About Author
Jackie Robinson
Jackie Robinson was an American baseball player and civil rights activist, famously breaking the color barrier in Major League Baseball. His quotes often reflect courage, determination, and equality. Robinson inspires athletes, activists, and leaders to challenge injustice, persevere against adversity, and make a lasting impact in sports and society.
Related Quotes
â I think if we go back and check our record, the Negro has proven beyond a doubt that we have been more than patient in seeking our rights as American citizens. â
This quote means black Americans had already shown extraordinary patience in the struggle for equal rights. Delayed justice could no longer be excused.
â There's not an American in this country free until every one of us is free. â
This quote means freedom is incomplete for everyone until it exists for all. One person\'s oppression diminishes the whole nation.
â My problem was my inability to spend much time at home. I thought my family was secure, so I went running around everyplace else. I guess I had more of an effect on other people's kids than I did my own. â
This quote is a regretful admission that public impact can come at the cost of private family presence. Success elsewhere does not erase absence at home.