Indianapolis-It’s a unique sporting event, a game that celebrates history and the progressive movement of all people towards equal rights. The Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC) and the Indianapolis Indians, in accordance with Minor League Baseball (MiLB), will host the first annual Civil Rights Game at Victory Field Saturday, August 25th.
Prior to the game, former Indianapolis Clowns Negro League players will be honored and throw out the ceremonial first pitch with ICRC Executive Director Jamal L. Smith. The Indianapolis Indians will pay tribute to the Clowns by wearing a throwback jersey.
"This is a wonderful opportunity to honor the Clowns for their impact on the Central Indiana community,” said Smith. “Additionally, we wish to shed light on the struggles for equality they faced, and that are still faced today.”
The Indianapolis Indians will host the two-time defending Triple-A National Champion Columbus Clippers at 7:05 pm in front of a capacity Victory Field crowd. The Indians currently lead the Cleveland Indians Triple-A affiliate Clippers by eight games in the International League West Division.
Hundreds of children throughout the state will receive free tickets to the game courtesy of the ICRC.
“We are proud to host the Civil Rights Game and make this an annual tradition,” added Smith. “It’s an honor to help continue to spread the importance of the Negro League and it’s connection to civil rights.”
For more information on the Civil Rights Game visit: www.indyindians.com.
The Indiana Civil Rights Commission enforces the Indiana civil rights laws and provides quality education and services to the public in an effort to ensure equal opportunity for all Hoosiers and visitors to the State of Indiana. For more information, contact Brad Meadows, ICRC Communications Manager, at (317) 501-4602.
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