By Aaron Snowell
Jack Johnson Exhibit
Boxing has had a unique role within American culture. Boxing is among the first, and most high profile spaces to accept African Americans in terms of equality. At a time when African Americans were not allowed to fight for the World Heavyweight Title, Jack Johnson (The Colored Heavyweight Champion) challenged this rule. In 1908, Johnson became the World Heavyweight Champion by knocking out Tommy Burns in Australia. The news that an African American had become the champion sent a shockwave around the world.
Message of the Exhibit:
Boxing matters beyond the ring.
This exhibit will demonstrate-
1. Johnson’s contributions and challenges he faced in American Politics and culture
2.How African Americans created their own boxing institutions most notably during the era of segregation.
3.The exhibition will show how Johnson leveled the playing field for African Americans and the quest for freedom, justice and equality.
4. The exhibit will encourage visitors to think about ways they can help make boxing better and America a greater place by providing historical context for discussions about race and social justice in business and sports.
