Feb 7, 2024 2 min read

The theft and destruction of the statue of Jackie Robinson in Wichita, Kan., is appalling and infuriating, but not entirely surprising in this era in which many proudly wear their hatred and racial animus on their sleeves.

Jackie Robinson’s talent on the baseball diamond does not begin to tell the story of his all-too-brief life. He was a man of remarkable courage and dignity, brushing off every slight, every action designed to intimidate him and get him out of the sport. He was a noted leader in the area of civil rights. He would surely be pleased with the progress our country has made in many areas, but historic hatreds die hard and continue to be passed from generation to generation.

The blockbuster Broadway musical “South Pacific” contains the song “You’ve Got to be Carefully Taught”, which includes the following lyrics:

“You’ve got to be taught to hate and fear,

You’ve got to be taught from year to year,

It’s got to be drummed in your dear little ear-

You’ve got to be carefully taught.

You’ve got to be taught to be afraid

Of people whose eyes are oddly made,

And people whose skin is a different shade-

You’ve got to be carefully taught.”

Many learned the lesson well.

Surely the despicable creatures who are responsible for destroying the Jackie Robinson statue will be caught. May the punishment fit this hate crime.

Oren Spiegler

Peters