On January 30, 2026, District 5 City Commissioner Shan Rose, along with the City of Orlando’s Families, Parks, and Recreation Department, will honor baseball pioneer Jackie Robinson with the dedication of a commemorative sign at the baseball field located within the John H. Jackson Neighborhood Center.
The event will pay tribute to a significant historical moment when, in 1949, the Jackie Robinson All-Stars faced off against the Orlando All-Stars at what is now the John H. Jackson Neighborhood Center, once known as Carter Street Park. This notable game brought together stars from the Negro Leagues and provided local fans with the rare opportunity to see their sports heroes compete live. The park has historically served as a vital gathering place for Orlando’s Black community, marked by various important events in the realm of baseball.
Jackie Robinson is celebrated for breaking Major League Baseball’s color barrier and leveraging his influence to advocate for equality and equitable opportunities. The upcoming dedication at the former Carter Street Park not only commemorates Robinson’s crucial impact on the sport but also acknowledges the site’s vital role in Orlando’s Black history.
The dedication ceremony will take place at 5:00 p.m. at the John H. Jackson Baseball Field, located at 1002 West Carter Street. Media representatives are encouraged to RSVP by January 29, 2026, to ensure coverage of this momentous occasion. For parking, media will find assistance available at the baseball field.
This celebration looks forward to bringing the community together to reflect on the past and inspire future generations, emphasizing the enduring legacy of Jackie Robinson in both baseball and the fight for equality.