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Philadelphia officially apologizes to Jackie Robinson

March 31, 2016 Associated Press
Jackie Robinson is pictured in 1947. AP Photo, File
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Philadelphia is officially apologizing to Jackie Robinson for the shameful way he was treated in the City of Brotherly Love.

The City Council unanimously passed a resolution Thursday naming April 15, 2016 as a day to honor Robinson’s achievements and to apologize for the racism he faced while visiting Philadelphia in 1947.

April 15 is the day Robinson broke the color barrier by becoming the first black player in Major League Baseball.

Robinson was refused service by a local hotel and then taunted by Philadelphia Phillies manager Ben Chapman, who, along with players, mercilessly hurled racial slurs at Robinson each time he came to bat.

The 2013 biopic “42” highlights the hateful reception Robinson received in Philadelphia while playing with the Brooklyn Dodgers.

The apology will be presented to Robinson’s widow, Rachel.

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