How did Jackie Robinson Day start?

This year marks the 70th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking baseball's color barrier, a milestone that no other player had ever achieved. In the years that followed, his status as a pioneer in breaking barriers was celebrated with numerous events across the country to honor this great baseball player and advocate of equality in sports. Now, as Jackie is celebrating this important achievement and legacy, his own birthday is just around the corner, which will be celebrated with many celebrations across the country as well.

Jackie Robinson's birthday:

Usually held every August 15th, on Jackie Robinson's birthday, Jackie Robinson Day is instead commemorated throughout the Major League Baseball league on August 28th in advance of the upcoming 2020 season. As part of this yearly celebration, every player on all clubs will sport a jersey bearing the number 42, which is retired within the league as part of the MLB's historic 1997 settlement agreement with former players who brought claims against the league for racial discrimination.

Jackie Robinson current contract with an MLB club:

Although Jackie has no current contract with an MLB club, every team is encouraged to wear this jersey number for this special occasion. This jersey represents the accomplishments of one of baseball's great players, and each player is encouraged to wear it to show their support for this remarkable individual. As such, players are encouraged to not only wear this jersey when playing for the team, but also wear it prior to and after every game. Even if they do not play, they should still be visible to fans, to share a moment with those who are honoring this legend.
  • There are several websites online where you can order your Jackie Robinson jersey number in advance of this important celebration. You may want to order more than one jersey so that you can wear them for any special occasion or event, whether it is a wedding, anniversary, or other important event.
  • If you are a fan of the San Francisco Giants, you will want to purchase a jersey bearing the number "9". With this jersey, you will be able to honor one of baseball's greatest players and share in this celebratory celebration.
  • Another jersey that you may want to consider wearing is the one worn by Don Mattingly as he broke Jackie Robinson's record. During this time, Mattingly was a member of the San Diego Padres, and his jersey was worn by one of the players in their outfield. The player was a close friend of Jackie Robinson, so when he broke this record, he was given his own jersey, which he wore throughout the entire season.
  • No matter what jersey you choose to wear on this special day, don't forget to bring along the birthday cards with you as well. Everyone enjoys receiving a card with a photograph, so plan ahead and get the cards signed by your favorite players.
  • In addition to honoring Jackie Robinson's achievement, you will also want to show support for equality and respect in sports in general. You can help spread the message of inclusion for those that have suffered prejudice or abuse within our society today. This year, let your fellow fans know that you support their rights and encourage the NFL Players Association to further its advocacy of justice in sports.
  • As previously mentioned, you are encouraged to wear your Jackie Robinson jersey at all games played for your NFL team. If you cannot attend any games, make sure to bring along some extra clothing. You can also purchase a t-shirt, hat, or sweatshirt to wear with your jersey, and wear it proudly in a way that shows that you support Jackie Robinson's legacy.
  • If your team does not offer a jersey for you to wear during this special day, you can support your team with custom made jerseys created especially for Jackie Robinson Day by purchasing the uniform from the Pro Player Uniforms Company. This company has created many popular designs for teams like the Chicago Bears and Los Angeles Lakers, and they even have jerseys designed for current NBA players like Kobe Bryant and Lebron James.
You can also purchase the jerseys directly from Pro Player Uniforms by visiting their website and by contacting them directly. Pro Player also offers a number of discount coupons available online, so if you purchase several of their items you may be able to save money on your entire uniform collection. Once you buy your custom jersey, you will receive an email newsletter with all of the latest deals and discounts, including the Jackie Robinson Day deal!