Throughout the history of blacks, great black athletes have served as role models for American youth, in a way that may not have happened to other leaders. And certainly, some of these great athletic heroes are like a god to all sports fans, not just those in the black community. Michael Jordon's ability on the basketball court during his career sometimes seems beyond human ability. And Mohammed Ali’s work sent a powerful message of black pride to black and white America that transformed a black person’s social vision of talent and attitude.
Before the emergence of Mohammed Ali, the idea of a black boxer, even a very good boxer who would be a part of black pride seemed impossible. But Ali showed something to the youth of African American society that was so inspiring that it helped to change their worldview in a way that no one else could.
With his swagger and braggadocio, Ali stood out as a proud black man in a way never seen before. His use of rhyme with phrases such as “I float like a butterfly and sting like a bee” in his self-promotion ended with “I am beautiful”, which sent a message to someone who loves black and white people alike. And that message was great and clear. Ali was black and proud and some black men and women in America have every reason to be as proud as he is.
This was an important message because getting out of the oppressive years, it was sometimes difficult for young black people to have the sense of pride and self-confidence needed to get out there and be successful. It has taken the work of black characters like Mohammed Ali to let them know that it is permissible to be proud and great. Because Ali did not substantiate his claims with mere boasting. He was a great black athlete too. So when Ali bragged about himself being “good”, he showed that the way he fought was good.
That same beauty and the way it was used to promote the black community can be found in Michael Jordon’s amazing work. In a similar way to Ali’s talent that seemed to surpass even the type of boxing, Jordon was so amazing in basketball that he became an icon of excellence and skill and a good role model for black youth across the country. Both of these men realized that God had given them this great talent and the opportunity to reach their full potential. And they have worked hard to be an example to their community so that others can be motivated to become better people.
In addition, the great black sports heroes also provide healing by setting a high level of success for sports fans of all races to admire. It was not only black sports fans who liked the work of Mohammed Ali and Michael Jordon. They became true heroes in any sport that was an integral part of his life.
Sport is a platform where men and women come together to meet and find common ground. As entertainment, there is a sports world that makes comrades of all who enjoy the actions of sports heroes whether it is a baseball diamond, a soccer field, a boxing stadium, or a basketball court. And sports fans have a level of appreciation for their heroes based on talent, success, and ability to do the one thing everyone in sports recommends - to be a winner. And Mohammed Ali and Michael Jordon symbolized the great black men who were also conquerors in every way. And we all like that regardless of race, color, or religion.
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