NEW DELHI: An online fundraiser has successfully raised over $160,000 to replace a historic bronze statue of baseball pioneer Jackie Robinson, stolen and found destroyed in McAdams Park, Wichita, Kansas. The fundraiser, organized on Wednesday, which would have marked the 105th birthday of Jackie Robinson, garnered immense support from donors, surpassing the original target of $75,000.
Jackie Robinson, the first Black baseball player to integrate Major League Baseball in 1947, is celebrated for breaking racial barriers in the sport. The stolen statue, commissioned by League 42, a little league non-profit named after Robinson's jersey number, was found dismantled last week, with Robinson's likeness cut off at the ankles. Subsequently, the burning remains of the statue were discovered in a trash can in the park.
Major League Baseball (MLB) and its 30 clubs have pledged to contribute to the restoration efforts, emphasizing their commitment to preserving Robinson's legacy. The fundraiser, organized to replace the stolen statue, received an outpouring of donations, more than double the required amount.
Bob Lutz, the executive director for League 42, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support in a statement on X (formerly known as Twitter). He shared the positive news, stating, "During this emotional week, we are proud to report some great news. [MLB], which has been in touch with [League 42] from the moment this tragedy became public, has formalized their support for our youth."
"The Commissioner’s Office and the 30 Clubs have committed funding towards the costs of replacing our Jackie Robinson statue and providing other means of support for League 42," he added.
Among the notable contributions, an anonymous former MLB player who won a World Series generously donated $10,000. Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan acknowledged the remarkable community support and called for those responsible for the statue's removal to come forward.
"The community, along with the business community and the nation as a whole, have demonstrated an incredible outpouring of support," Sullivan stated. "This effort highlights the kindness of the people and their determination to rebuild what was taken away from our community."
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