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In a heartfelt ceremony, Wichita’s League 42 unveiled a new Jackie Robinson statue, replacing the one stolen and vandalized earlier this year. The event celebrated Robinson’s legacy and the community’s resilience, with notable figures from MLB and local leaders in attendance. Learn more about the significance of this tribute and the story behind its restoration.
New Jackie Robinson Statue Unveiled in Wichita, Kansas
In a heartfelt and symbolic ceremony, organizers of a youth baseball league in Wichita, Kansas, unveiled a new statue of Jackie Robinson, replacing the original that had been stolen and vandalized earlier this year. The event marked a significant moment of resilience and community spirit, paying tribute to the legacy of the Brooklyn Dodgers legend and civil rights hero.
A Long Journey to Restoration
“It’s been a long six months,” remarked Bob Lutz, executive director of League 42, the organization named in honor of Robinson. “And this is where we wanted it to get to. We feel like we, and so many others, have helped make the best of a terrible situation. And we hope to move forward with much more comfort now that we know we have this statue in place.”
The new statue was installed at McAdams Park, the home ground for League 42’s games. The unveiling ceremony drew a crowd of about 300 people, underscoring the community’s commitment to honoring Robinson’s legacy.
Celebrating Robinson’s Legacy
Among the attendees were notable figures from Major League Baseball, including former players CC Sabathia, Dellin Betances, Jeremy Guthrie, and Mike Pelfrey. Tony Reagins, MLB’s chief baseball development officer, was also present, along with three members of the Kansas City Royals’ front office. Both Sabathia and Reagins addressed the crowd, highlighting the importance of Robinson’s contributions to baseball and civil rights.
Other speakers included Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, local councilmember Brandon Johnson, and Carol Parsons, wife of the late John Parsons, the sculptor of the original statue. MLB funded the statue’s replacement, a testament to the league’s ongoing commitment to preserving the history and impact of its trailblazing players.
Recreating a Piece of History
The new statue was crafted by Art Castings of Colorado, an art foundry located 50 miles outside of Denver. They used the original mold created by John Parsons, who passed away in 2022, ensuring that the new statue faithfully replicates the original work.
Several players from League 42, which boasts 600 members, two-thirds of whom are Black and Latino, attended the ceremony. Among them was 8-year-old Marcus Jones, who volunteered to speak. “Jackie Robinson is a spark for the whole league,” he said, capturing the sentiment of the day and the enduring inspiration Robinson provides to young athletes.
The Theft and Its Aftermath
The original statue was stolen just after midnight on January 25, as surveillance footage revealed. Police reported that at least three individuals were involved in cutting and removing the statue. The statue’s remnants, charred from a fire, were discovered in another park seven miles away. The bronze replicas of Robinson’s cleats, however, were left behind and subsequently donated to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.
Ricky Alderete, 45, was arrested in connection with the theft. He pleaded guilty to theft and other charges in May and was sentenced to 15 years in prison for multiple cases. Before his sentencing, Lutz met with Alderete at Kansas’ Sedgwick County Courthouse, seeking to understand his motivations. Alderete, struggling with a long-term drug problem, expressed his remorse to some extent, though Lutz remains cautious. “It’s hard to know,” Lutz said. “I don’t want to be played. But I also don’t want to be so cynical that I don’t think there’s any chance. So, I believe only Ricky knows. And he’ll be able to prove it one way or another over the next several years.”
Community Resilience and Moving Forward
The unveiling of the new statue represents more than just the replacement of a stolen monument; it is a powerful symbol of resilience and community spirit. Jackie Robinson’s legacy as a pioneer in breaking the color barrier in Major League Baseball and his broader impact on civil rights continue to inspire generations.
League 42, named after Robinson’s iconic jersey number, has become a beacon for youth in Wichita, promoting values of teamwork, perseverance, and inclusivity. The organization’s efforts to quickly restore the statue reflect a deep respect for these values and a commitment to educating young players about the importance of Robinson’s contributions both on and off the field.
Honoring the Past and Inspiring the Future
The presence of prominent baseball figures and community leaders at the unveiling ceremony highlighted the significance of this event. Their speeches resonated with themes of unity, resilience, and the enduring power of Robinson’s legacy. Tony Reagins emphasized the role of sports in bridging divides and fostering community spirit, while CC Sabathia shared personal reflections on how Robinson’s journey had inspired his own career.
Bob Kendrick’s address brought historical context, reminding attendees of the struggles faced by Negro League players and the transformative impact of Robinson’s integration into Major League Baseball. Local councilmember Brandon Johnson spoke to the community’s strength and the importance of maintaining Robinson’s legacy as a symbol of progress and equality.
Looking Ahead
With the new statue in place, League 42 and the Wichita community look forward to continuing their mission of fostering a love for baseball while instilling important life values in young players. The statue stands as a reminder of the power of sports to unite and inspire, even in the face of adversity.
As the crowd dispersed after the unveiling, there was a palpable sense of achievement and hope. The journey to replace the statue was not just about restoring a piece of art but about reaffirming the values that Jackie Robinson represented: courage, determination, and the fight for equality.
The story of the new Jackie Robinson statue in Wichita, Kansas, is a testament to the enduring legacy of a man who changed the course of history. It is a reminder that, even in challenging times, communities can come together to celebrate their heroes and uphold the principles they stood for.
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