May 17, 2000

Mr. Bud Selig

Major League Baseball Commissioner

New York, NY

Sir:

The history of America and Major League Baseball (MLB) parallels each other. Though it began after slavery, abolition did not prevent MLB from developing the same mindset, regarding slaves' descendants, as mainstream America. Institutionalized racism maintains black players in a lesser status, just as segregation kept them out of MLB. The almost total absence of blacks in upper and middle management positions testify to MLB's commitment to the southern plantation style of management, which is personified by John Rocker and exemplified in the Atlanta Braves' history. Not only committed to the Manifest Destiny mentality, which is reflected in the team's name, the Braves organization supports keeping the Confederate emblem in Georgia's flag.

As of May 20, 2000, the National Black Day Out, citizens of Georgia are initiating an international boycott of states that display Confederate symbols, especially Georgia, Mississippi, and South Carolina. In January, we called on the NFL to support our effort and speak out in opposition to Georgia's flag. Letters addressed to Mr. Tony Blair, Prime Minister of England, and EU President Romano Prodi requested their assistance by withholding all economic support for projects in America. Now, it is MLB's turn to step up to the plate in this battle to defeat racism in America. Having been as guilty as any in enforcing segregation, MLB cannot deny its debt to blacks and their tremendous contribution in elevating the game of baseball.

Citizens of Georgia are requesting that MLB move its All-Star Game to another city, rather than break our boycott to change the Georgia state flag. This is not an issue being played off the field; John Rocker has proven to be the norm. Racism crosses all lines separating Americans; the attitudes of young players tomorrow will be determined by attitudes reflected in the MLB today. Fouling off balls today hoping to get a better pitch tomorrow does not guarantee a better ball player will be on the field to make the play. Everyone in baseball felt justified enforcing segregating rules in the 1930s, '40s and '50s. However, today no one will claim responsibility for making those rules or making restitution for their effect. Slavery and segregation are treated as though they were unintended accidents from which no one planned or benefited.

Moving the All-Star Game would show that MLB at least recognizes America's slave history is real and must be addressed with corporate, political, economic and individual actions. Stepping out of the box only guarantees our children and grandchildren will be penalized by today's bad calls. Georgians await your response to this plea.

Respectfully, 

John Burl Smith

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