The legislation, called the National Commemorative Site Act, honors the site where Jackie Robinson played his first game and broke the color barrier in professional baseball on March 17, 1946. It also directs the Secretary of Interior to conduct a feasibility study to give the site the designation of National Historic Landmark. This National Commemorative Site is particularly special because baseball can still be enjoyed at the site where the historic event took place. Not many historic sites are experiential – providing the opportunity to “experience” the historic event due to the same activity/use (professional baseball) still taking place at the site
“The Jackie Robinson Ballpark Commemorative Site Act not only honors Jackie Robinson’s groundbreaking legacy but also ensures future generations will remember the profound impact he had on Daytona Beach, civil rights and professional sports,” said Congressman Michael Waltz, who introduced the legislation in the House of Representatives.