Tri-State Defender - June 20, 2024

JUNETEENTH

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Scenes

■■ NEWS

from one of many Juneteenth celebrations across Memphis

The Juneteenth Celebration hosted by Telisa Franklin at Health Sciences Park was a vibrant and event honoring freedom and community. Held from June 14-15, the festival featured a variety of kid-friendly and family-friendly activities, including musical performances, a community baby shower, and the Freedom 2.5 Walk Run. Celebrating its 31st year, the festival highlighted cultural heritage, promoted unity, and provided a platform for local talent and businesses. Dr. Telisa Franklin, the festival’s president, played a pivotal role in the celebration with also included keynote speakers and engaged the community in commemorating the significance of Juneteenth. With extensive community involvement and sponsorship, the Memphis Juneteenth Festival remained a cornerstone of cultural celebration and historical reflection in the city.

Memphis Juneteenth President Telisa Franklin prepares bags for attendees during a June 15 celebration at Health Sciences Park in Downtown Memphis. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

Tri-State Defender

President Calvin Anderson Interim Editor Lee Eric Smith

Black Fatherhood and the Education of Black Children

By Curtis Weathers TSD Education Columnist

ere were many celebrations of Father’s Day this past weekend. Organizations and churches nationwide celebrated the challenges and importance of fatherhood with picnics, programs, and sermons from the pulpits. For us educators, however, it is an opportunity to re ect on the importance of fathers in the education of our children. is is particularly true for fathers in the black community.

e role of fathers in the educational development of their children is undeniable. Yet, the narrative surrounding Black fathers and their participation in their children’s education has o en been marred by stereotypes and misconceptions. In fact, the TSD’s recent “Black Dads Who DO!” series was created as a counter to that narrative, by saluting Black fathers who are present and involved.

Research has shown that children with involved fathers, regardless of race, tend to have better educational outcomes, including higher grades, test scores, and a greater likelihood of graduating from high school and college. However, it is crucial to delve deeper into the complexities of this relationship, understanding both the systemic challenges Black fathers face and the remarkable contributions they can make to their children’s academic journeys.

e role of Black fathers in their children’s education is a complex and multifaceted issue, o en shaped by historical and societal factors. While stereotypes and misconceptions persist, the reality is far more nuanced, encompassing a wide range of experiences and levels of involvement.

As a school principal, whenever there was a problem with a student (behavior or academic), the vast majority of

the time, it was the mother who came to the school to address the issue(s). It was rare that the father came in, but it was always a pleasure when they did. We o en rolled out the red carpet (special treatment) when they appeared.

It is true that historically, Black fathers have faced a disproportionate amount of societal barriers that have hindered their involvement in their children’s education. Systemic racism, economic disparities, and the legacies of slavery have contributed to the disproportionate number of Black fathers who are incarcerated, unemployed, or underemployed. ese factors can create immense challenges in providing their children with nancial support, emotional stability, and educational guidance.

While it is true, studies have shown that when Black fathers, regardless of their socioeconomic status, are actively engaged in their children’s lives, their children are more likely to succeed academically, have higher self-esteem, and exhibit positive social behaviors.

Not all Black fathers, however, t into a single mold, and it is crucial to recognize the unique challenges and strengths that each individual brings to the table.

e involvement of Black fathers can take various forms, from attending parent-teacher conferences and helping with homework to volunteering at school events and advocating for their children’s needs. Some fathers may be primary caregivers, while others may share parenting responsibilities with partners or co-parents.

Regardless of their speci c circum-

stances, the presence and support of Black fathers can have a profound impact on their children’s educational journeys.

Schools and communities can play a crucial role in supporting Black fathers by providing resources, creating welcoming environments, and fostering positive relationships between fathers and educators. Mentorship programs, parenting workshops, and initiatives that address economic and social barriers can also encourage and empower Black fathers to become more actively engaged in their children’s education.

Here in Memphis, there are organizations like Fathers First that advocate for the more active involvement of dads in their children’s schools. e mission of Fathers First is to cultivate nurturing and engaged fathers that will meaningfully enhance the well-being of their children and their families.

Other organizations like Call 2 Men Memphis are building relationships with schools and other nonpro ts to help better support the involvement of men and fathers in their children’s schools.

e AFIRM program is a new community-based initiative developed by the Family Matters organization that o ers fatherhood and family-strengthening counselors who are trained case managers.

Schools and many other community organizations are developing programs to engage fathers in their children’s education, providing workshops, training, and opportunities for involvement. ese programs aim to break down barriers, foster positive relationships, and create a more inclusive educational environment for children and dads.

Not all Black fathers t into a single mold, and it is important to recognize the unique challenges and strengths that each individual brings to the table.

We must challenge stereotypes and misconceptions that portray Black fathers as absent or uninvolved. Media representations o en perpetuate these harmful narratives, overshadowing the countless Black fathers who are dedicated to their children’s well-being and educational success.

By recognizing and celebrating the diverse experiences of Black fatherhood, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all families.

However, despite the many positive strides made by Black fathers, significant challenges still need to be addressed. e stigma surrounding absent Black fathers persists, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and obscuring the reality of countless Black fathers who are deeply involved in their children’s lives.

Keep in mind while historical and societal factors have created these unique challenges, many Black fathers are deeply committed to their children’s educational success. By acknowledging their contributions, addressing systemic inequities, and fostering supportive environments, we can empower Black fathers to play an even greater role in shaping the next generation.

Black fathers, your involvement in your children’s education is invaluable. Be present, engaged, and supportive. Attend school events, help with homework, and communicate with teachers. Your presence and guidance can inspire your children to reach their full potential. Embrace your role as a mentor and role model, encouraging them to achieve even beyond their dreams and aspirations. By actively participating in their academic journey, you are shaping their future, breaking down barriers, and creating a lasting legacy of achievement.

Curtis Weathers

Gen-Z Will Save Us All, That’s Why They’re Being Censored

By Sam Judy Dallas Weekly Magazine

As the TikTok Ban makes its way to the US Senate, progressive organizations on college campuses advocating for Palestine are targets of a new resolution signed into law by Gov. Greg Abbott. Generation-Z, with higher rates of diversity, civic engagement, and education, could be the spark that manifests a radical shi in US politics. And that’s precisely why our current political leaders fear them.

One thing the United States government hates with a ery, intense passion – more than terrorism, more than world hunger, and more than homelessness – is a constituent educated to the unsavory aspects of western culture and politics.

I don’t think this, I know this. How else could you explain legislation on a social media platform, primarily distinct as it’s become an oasis for progressive awakening and radicalization, advancing faster and with more bipartisan support than policies like marijuana legalization, universal healthcare, or divestment from foreign wars, that are well-received across the political spectrum?

Even as congressional action will progress slowly on this legislative initiative, it’s considered widely to be largely agreeable within the halls of the House and the Senate building. It’s like Nancy says, “Tictac-toe, a winner. A winner.”

But unintelligible ramblings from someone’s grandmother aside, the high-ranking Democrat

and Ronald Reagan fan speaks subjectively on the TikTok ban when stating that this “is not an attempt to ban TikTok, it’s an attempt to make TikTok better.”

Because what’s good for the US government is not always good for the people of this country.

So no, I don’t think it’s a coincidence that a platform mainly used by young Americans, who have either just entered the political sphere or are approaching it, is being treated as a potential digital center for propaganda because government entities can less e ectively censor its content.

Aside from government rhetoric on TikTok holding racist undertones, a ban of the platform would be a hit directed against Generation-Z. Our current political leaders, many of whom have made

careers on blocking critical and consequential legislation to appease lobbyists, hold an enormous fear for younger voters.

Younger voters, Gen-Z in particular, are less likely to go along with the status quo. ey are less likely to follow the reasoning that the political establishment lays out for why our policies are so regressive compared to the rest of the world.

Whether this is related to the false depiction of universal healthcare as ine cient and ine ective, Nestle misleading consumers and lawmakers to prevent the establishment of federally-required paid maternity leave, or AIPAC’s normalization of Zionism through in ltration of American politics, Gen-Z is not taking the bait. And distinctively, Gen-Z doesn’t seem to be going the way of the former

hippies of the Baby Boom or the previously anti-establishment modern beatniks of Generation-X. In fact, they’re doubling down once they leave college.

In both Texas and the United States overall, as educational spaces are typically seen as a catalyst for political awakening, college campuses are similarly receiving a signi cant amount of scrutiny. Gov. Greg Abbott recently signed a bill into law cracking down on ‘anti-semitism’ on college campuses.

Students for Justice in Palestine at the University of Texas at Dallas have been particularly active in organizing spaces. Working closely with other national organizations like Palestinian Youth Movement and the Party for Socialism and Liberation to organize demonstra-

Gen-Z, with higher rates of diversity, civic engagement, and education, could be the spark that manifests a radical shift in US politics, and the US government fears them due to their potential for radicalizing the political system. Photo: Sam Judy/Dallas Weekly.

■■ PERSPECTIVE

tions advocating for the people of Palestine and condemning the actions of Israel, students are under threat of censorship from their university and even expulsion, as outlined by Abbott’s measure.

“By misrepresenting pro-Palestinian demands for justices, he tarnishes the reputation of Palestinian and pro-Palestinian activists while claiming to protect students’ rights,“ SJP of UTD said in a statement last month. “[Abbott] is aware that student-led organizing for Palestinian freedom is a rapidly growing movement across our connected Texas campuses, and he purposefully seeks to silence our voices.”

While UT Austin made headlines for sanctioning students for pro-Palestinian activism, schools in California and Tennessee have had students arrested following advocacy for the people of Gaza. is con rms that Texas is not an anomaly with its crackdown on ‘anti-semitism.’

But ‘anti-semitism’ in this sense is simply a dog whistle for anti-Zionism. Ironically, the con ation of Judaism with Zionism shows parallels with the repurposing of the swastika as Nazi imagery from its previous context across Hindu, Buddhist, and Indigenous American faiths as a symbol of peace and prosperity.

Zionism, a bipartisan colonial and nationalist movement, is being more widely rejected by Gen-Z than any other age group. For many people, realizing anti-Zionist belief is a gateway to rejecting the colonial system overall. e United States, a colonial empire, does not like that.

e United States being a colonial empire is not an opinion. When you assess its actions across its 400-year history, you’ll nd commonalities in policy from the extermination and displacement of Indigenous and Black populations with current struggles

in Puerto Rico, the Sudan, the Philippines, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

My opinion though, is that a largely peaceful demographic arguing for human rights to be censored by a government that pro ts from war, genocide, and displacement shows a troublingly-wide moral dichotomy that designates that peaceful demographic as being in a position of enormous power and purpose. e facet of generational change makes this political wave inevitable in its in uence.

Gen-Z enters the political stage with more clarity and greater respect for scienti c and liberal arts institutions rather than business and commerce and more regard for workers than CEOs, owners, and landlords. is, paired with authoritarian attitudes against criticism for the government and its allies, sets an inevitable civic confrontation if lawmakers fail to rein in Gen-Z’s political awaken-

ing and radicalism. Who knows, maybe Gen-Z will completely transform our political system as they grow and develop as individuals in American society.

e US House of Representatives just passed a resolution condemning the rallying cry “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” as an antisemitic phrase with a majority vote of 377-44-1. With this, Congress continues to actively work against young pro-Palestinian activists by painting their support for liberation as a terroristic threat. As a pattern is beginning to take shape, we’re likely to see more and more legislation that imposes an authoritarian will on the people of the United States. Especially young activists hoping to make signi cant changes to the political system of this country.

As far as the government sees it, the kids are not alright. But with a big brother like this, what’s the point of good behavior?

NCRM Freedom Award honorees include Clayton, Ifill and Spike Lee

MC Lyte set to host event; special entertainment by Deborah Cox

By Taylor Batson Special to The Tri-State Defender

e National Civil Rights Museum has o cially announced their honorees for the 33rd Freedom Award.

e 33rd Freedom Award will pay tribute to Civil Rights warrior Xernona Clayton, Sherrilyn I ll of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, and legendary lmmaker Spike Lee, each renowned for their unwavering commitment to equity and justice. e ceremony will be hosted by trailblazing rap star MC Lyte, with special music from award winning entertainer Deborah Cox.

e Freedom Award is presented to individuals for their work, impact, and accomplishments in the name of freedom and civil rights, and this year’s recipients have made contributions to civil and human rights that will leave an unforgettable mark on society.

“We are excited about these recipients. It’s important that we continue to li up special people who have deep and meaningful connections to the movement,” said Russ Wigginton, President of the National Civil Rights Museum. “Someone like Ms. Clayton, who had a special relationship with Dr. King and Ms. King, was a pioneer in her own right.”

Xernona Clayton, a civil and human rights activist and producer, has been a trailblazer in civil rights and broadcasting for 60 years. Clayton, the founder and president of the Trumpet Awards Foundation, began her career working closely with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. Clayton then entered her television career where she broke barri-

ers and became the rst black person in the south to host her own show.

Today, Clayton continues to inspire generations with her pioneering spirit.

e National Civil Rights Museum continues to honor those that made tremendous change in the past like Xernona Clayton, but they also acknowledge the fact that they must also honor those who are a part of modern day activism.

“ e Freedom Award is inspired by the work of Dr. King and the historical and contemporary Civil Rights Movement. You’ll notice that we always try to include those who were close condants of Dr. King, like Ms. Clayton,” said Faith Morris, Senior Advisor at the NCRM. “Over the years, our honorees have become younger, re ecting both the traditional movement and those who are actively involved today, like Spike Lee and Sherrilyn I ll.”

Sherrilyn I ll, President and Director-Counsel Emeritus of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, has signi cantly impacted civil rights advocacy. Under her leadership, the LDF increased its

“We are excited about these recipients. It’s important that we continue to lift up special people who have deep and meaningful connections to the movement.”

— Russ Wigginton

engagement in combating voter suppression and racial discrimination. In 2022, Time named I ll as one of Times Magazine Women of the Year, and in 2021, Times Magazine named I ll as one of the 100 Most In uential People In e World.

Spike Lee, the Academy Award-winning lmmaker, has reshaped the landscape of lmmaking and cinema, sparking national conversations around race, representation, and culture. Lee, who has mastered the art of storytelling, has now become dedicated to nurturing the next generation of lmmakers.

“Spike Lee has in uenced many people, contributing signi cantly to civil and human rights and understanding African American culture for a broad

audience through his lms. We are honored to have all three of these special people,” Morris said.

e Freedom Award ceremony will be held on October 17, 2024, at 7 p.m. at the Orpheum eatre in Memphis. e evening’s festivities will commence with a Pre-Award Gala and Red Carpet at 5:30 pm at the adjacent Halloran Centre.

In addition to the evening celebration, the Museum will host a hybrid Student Forum on October 17 at 10:30 am Central at FedEx Forum.

“Looking across generations is critical. As we get closer to the Freedom Award, we also host the Freedom Award Student Forum, gathering middle and high school students across the country at the FedEx Forum, as well as engaging college students and young professionals. It’s really exciting and crucial,” said Ti any L. Graham, Chief Marketing & Developing O cer for the museum.

Tickets for the Freedom Award ceremony are available via Ticketmaster, and event sponsorships can be secured by visiting freedomaward.org for more information and updates. unforgettable evening celebrating those who champion the cause of freedom and justice.

Xernona Clayton MC Lyte

Spike Lee

Deborah Cox

Sherrilyn Ifill

Councilman Offers Alternative to Mayor Young’s Proposed FY 2025 Budget

By James Coleman Special to The Tri-State Defender

With FY 2025 two weeks away, an alternative to City of Memphis’ Mayor Paul Young’s budget proposals - which include a 75-cent property tax increase - was presented during the Monday, June 17 Memphis City Council budget meeting.

“My goal is to present a budget that has close to, or no property tax increase,” said Councilman Chase Carlisle.

Instead, Carlisle’s $809 million proposed budget calls for a mixture of additional fees, cost-cutting and accounting procedures. It is estimated to generate $819 million in revenue. With no tax increase, the city is estimated to bring in $781 million.

Young, meanwhile, has placed three incremental budget options on the table. ey range from stripped down to $20 million in new programming. All three options would require additional revenue. Full funding of the mayor’s proposals presents a $100 million de cit.

State law requires the city to pass a balanced budget.

“Every time we have progressed, or had a conversation the expenses just continue to go up and up…,” said Carlisle. “Right now, the mayor has that proposed against $886 million worth of expenses. at is the gap.”

Carlisle’s back-to-the-drawing board proposal would trim most new spending.

It also increases the city’s weekly solid waste fee to $12. e additional revenue would cover 5 percent raises for AFSCME employees working in the city’s Solid Waste Division. e fee would also eliminate an annual $2 million general fund expense from the division.

Young’s proposal calls for rate increases. ey would be phased-in over three years. e rate would rise to $6.89 in FY2025. Monday’s pitch also raises the city’s wheel tax from $30 to $100 annually, to bring in another $26 million annually. e proposal also requests the administration to nd unused ARPA funds; sunsets two paid holidays for city employees; eliminates the council’s grant program; directs the Young administration cut 3.5 percent of material and supply expenses at their discretion.

While Carlisle’s budget proposal o ers an o ramp to higher property taxes, members were lukewarm to the proposal.

“I think we should pick and choose some of the ideas you just brought up. I think some are actually good ideas,” said Councilman Je Warren. “But I think we need to realize that we have one chance, probably two - this year and next year - we can raise property taxes.”

He added that the council needed to nd a “continual funding mechanism,” instead of relying on faulty revenue and budget forecasts. e mayor’s 75-cent proposal would represent a starting point in negotiations that could be pared down.

Warren is also supportive of several of the administration’s proposals to address crime and homelessness. And with the economy’s continued resilience - including easing concerns about in ation - investment in the city was overdue.

“Just to say, ‘Nope, we’re not going to do anything,’ then, next year we’re

behind the eight ball and we don’t have any money coming in at all.... It doesn’t make much sense to me,” said Warren.

Council member Edmund Ford, Sr. o ered a middle-ground property tax increase between .45 cents to .52 cents.

A cent increase represents around $1.4 million in revenue.

Another member called the city’s management of the nances “dysfunctional.”

“ e expenditures and the money that has gone out, and what has been given is absolutely, totally embarrassing and disrespectful… ere’s going to have to be a tax increase, there’s no doubt about it, but there’s going to have

to be some necessary cuts. Just like you run your households,” said Councilwoman Yolanda Cooper-Sutton. e city is wrapping up its $799 million FY2024 budget passed by the previous administration. However, estimates for the upcoming budget have swelled to $881 million, for a $82 million gap.

Council members will discuss the budget again on June 24. During the meeting, members are expected to introduce amendments to the proposals.

A vote will be held on June 25. e FY 2025 budget takes e ect on July 1.

Chase Carlisle

Rev. Albert Harwell

■■ COMMUNITY

“My grandfather, Pastor Albert Harwell is truly a GREAT man of God and amazing Granddad and Great-Granddad! His love and devotion to God and His people is apparent through his heart of gold in serving others. “He will do ANYTHING for his grandchildren Arielle and Garrison, but will go to the MOON for his great-granddaughters Averi and Angela! We love him so much!!” — Arielle Brown

Post Title: Black Dads Who DO! — Volume 4

Here at the Tri-State Defender, we’ve declared June as “ e Month of the Black Dad!” Meaning, we want to show some love to the men in our communities who are loving fathers and positive role models -- not just for their children, but the whole community! Enough talk about the men who don’t; we’re shouting out BLACK DADS WHO DO!

Here are some of your submissions so far! And if you are the proud child of a GREAT BLACK DAD, or know one who deserves a “HUGSHOT,” take a minute to tell us! Visit this link: https://forms.gle/hzPMMKAFkyeFW h7

Check out this round of “Black Dads Who DO!”

“From Day One of my nding out we were expecting, my ancée has went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed for our little one. He is a great father gure for my rst son and has accepted him as his own! He goes out of his way, working countless hours to make sure everything in the home is taken care of. I have seen him grow so much to become a great father.

“Even a er working all day he still comes home and get straight into ‘Dad mode.’ He helps me around the house with cooking, cleaning,

things for the kids etc. God really did his thing when he blessed me with Rasheed. I can’t express enough how thankful and appreciative I am for him in our lives!!!!!”

— Shanddrikka Dodson

“He is the epitome of an excellent father! I’m currently 32 and my dad lives 1.5 hours away. If I or my children need him he’d be here at the drop of a dime with no questions asked. He is a pillar in his community and has been his whole life.”

— Sienna Spight

Rasheed Wilkins

Quincy Spight

Anti-gun violence advocate Stevie Moore of Freedom from Unnecessary Negatives (FFUN) chatted with Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy during the Gun Down Don’t Shoot Walk/Run on Fathers Day weekend. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

Young people are fed up with all of the violence too.

Hundreds turn out to walk, run and stand up against violence at ‘Gun Down Don’t Shoot’ event

TSD Newsroom

On June 15, the Memphis Gun Down, Don’t Shoot walk/run took place, drawing a crowd of 250 participants despite the heat and humidity. Organized by the Memphis Shelby Crime Commission and co-sponsored by 13 organizations, the event started at Melrose High School. The 1.8-mile walk

Memphis Mayor Paul Young and Interim Police Chief CJ Davis got their steps in during the walk.

aimed to raise awareness about gun violence and advocate for tougher gun laws. The Memphis Police Department assisted in planning the route and managing traffic, ensuring a smooth and

impactful event. Participants united in taking a stand against the unacceptable levels of gun violence and expressed support for legislative action.

Those who have lost loved ones are among the most vocal advocates against gun violence, like these ladies who marched even as they mourned.

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

Willie Mays, the iconic Hall of Famer o en hailed as the greatest player in baseball history, has died at 93. e news broke during a Mets and Rangers game in Arlington, evoking emotional tributes from the baseball community.

“He was the greatest I had ever seen on the eld,” said Keith Hernandez, a New York Mets and St. Louis Cardinals legend, tearfully during the broadcast. Hernandez, who now serves as a color commentator for the Mets, re ected on Mays’ remarkable skills.

“Willie would play a shallow centereld, making it all the more amazing how he’d catch y balls against the wall,” added Mets broadcaster Gary Cohen. “He was the greatest ever to play.”

Just a day prior, it was announced that Mays would not attend a special game honoring him and the Negro Leagues. Scheduled for ursday, June 20, at Rickwood Field, the game features the San Francisco Giants and the St. Louis Cardinals. Mays, who began his career with the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro Leagues, had shared his plans to enjoy the event from home.

“I’m not able to get to Birmingham this year but will follow the game back here in the Bay Area,” he told the San Francisco Chronicle earlier in the week. “My heart will be with all of you who are honoring the Negro League ballplayers, who should always be remembered, including all my teammates on the Black Barons.”

Mays’ career spanned from 1951 to 1972 with the Giants, where he won a World Series in 1954, was a 24-time All-Star, and was a two-time National League MVP. Among many other accomplishments, his 660 home runs and 12 Gold Gloves highlight his legendary status.

e home run total came despite

■■ SPORTS

LEGACY: Baseball Legend Willie Mays Dies at 93

Major League Baseball, the City of Birmingham, and the Friends of Rickwood nonpro t group have collaborated to renovate Rickwood Field, the oldest professional ballpark in the United States, to honor Mays and the Negro Leagues. Despite his absence, Mays will be celebrated throughout the week’s festivities.

“My father has passed away peacefully and among loved ones,” Mays’ son, Michael Mays, announced.

“I want to thank you all from the bottom of my broken heart for the unwavering love you have shown him over the years. You have been his life’s blood.” Mays was not only a baseball legend but also a cherished gure in San Francisco. His 9-foot bronze statue stands proudly at Oracle Park’s 24 Willie Mays Plaza. He was eager to see MLB’s tribute at Rickwood Field, where he began his career.

Known for his exceptional ve-tool abilities—hitting, power hitting, elding, throwing, and baserunning—Mays also possessed an unmatched strategic acumen. In 2015, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Obama, who acknowledged Mays’ impact on sports and society. “It’s because of giants like Willie that someone like me could even think about running for president,” Obama remarked.

Mays was dedicated to helping others throughout his life, notably through his Say Hey Foundation, which supports underprivileged youth. “I do what I can for people, man,” Mays said in a 2021 interview. “When the kids ask me for something, I give it to them. Let them have it because they’re going to be here a er I’m gone, and I want the kids to enjoy what they can enjoy.”

having taken a two-year hiatus from baseball to serve in the military and having played in the three toughest

stadiums to hit home runs — e Polo Grounds, Candlestick Park, and Shea Stadium.

A career batting average of .302, 3,283 hits, and numerous honors de ne Mays’ legacy. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979, cementing his place as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

1955 Willie Mays baseball card.

President Barack Obama talks with baseball great Willie Mays aboard Air Force One en route to the MLB All-Star Game in St. Louis, July 14, 2009. In 2015 Obama awarded Mays the Presidential Medal of Freedom. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)