Nearly 70 Years Later, Philadelphia Finally Apologizes To Jackie Robinson For Racism He Faced In City

PHILADELPHIA (CBSNewYork/AP) -- It took nearly 70 years, but Philadelphia is finally apologizing to Jackie Robinson for the racism he faced in the City of Brotherly Love.

The City Council passed a resolution Thursday naming April 15 as a day to honor Robinson's achievements and to apologize for his mistreatment while visiting Philadelphia in 1947.

"I think that it calls us to consciousness that we need to be thoughtful about the ways in which racism still exists today. It did not begin or end with Jackie Robinson and it's important for us to remain conscious about that," told CBS Philly.

April 15 is the day Robinson broke the color barrier by becoming the first black player in Major League Baseball, playing for the Brooklyn Dodgers.

In Philadelphia, Robinson was refused service by a local hotel and taunted by Philadelphia Phillies manager Ben Chapman, who, along with players, hurled racial slurs at Robinson each time he came to bat.

The 2013 biopic "42" highlights the hateful reception Robinson received in Philadelphia.

The apology will be presented to Robinson's widow, Rachel.

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