Illinois State Senators Collins, Jones honor Jackie Robinson West players

SPRINGFIELD - State Senators Jacqueline Y. Collins (D-Chicago 16^th) and Emil Jones, III (D-Chicago 14^th) honored the players of the Jackie Robinson West Little League baseball team yesterday, joining with local business owners and other community leaders to present them with reproductions of a baseball-themed painting by Annie Lee, a noted African-American artist with Chicago ties who passed away late last year.

"Playing the game they love in the national spotlight, these young men showcased not only their athletic abilities, but their sportsmanship, class and grace under pressure," Collins said. "I'm proud to see a community come together to honor our youth for their accomplishments."

"Far too often, young black men in our community are negatively labeled and don't receive any sort admiration for their achievements," Jones said. "It's an honor and privilege to recognize these young men not only for their athletic ability, but also their ability to unite a city. Our city was blessed to witness a historical event that will never be forgotten."

Collins and State Representative Monique Davis (D-Chicago 27^th) have introduced resolutions calling on Little League International to rescind its decision to strip Jackie Robinson West of the national title it earned last year. Collins, Jones and others have stood with the players of JRW, who have inspired young people, particularly youth of color, throughout the United States and continue to represent Chicago with pride and dignity.