Reggie Jackson Condemns Antisemitism and Reflects on Racism

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Baseball Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson recently addressed antisemitism on social media, comparing it to the racism he faced in the 1960s. On Saturday morning, Jackson shared a link to the Anti-Defamation League’s website, highlighting statistics that show a rise in antisemitic incidents in Pennsylvania, where he was born. Jackson’s hometown is Wyncote, near Philadelphia.

Jackson’s message was a powerful reminder of the hate he witnessed: “It takes me back to the racism I experienced in the 1960s: signs throughout the South declaring that Black people could be refused service, along with separate ‘white’ and ‘colored’ signs on bathrooms and drinking fountains, ‘no n—s.’ I remember what that hatred looked and felt like. We cannot accept it in any form, directed at any people,” he wrote.

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During the Baseball Hall of Fame induction ceremony on July 27, 2025, Jackson was introduced at the Clark Sports Center in Cooperstown, N.Y. He used this platform to challenge politicians and leaders in Philadelphia to speak out against hate. “I wish I could be there to stand with those protesting HATE. I am asking elected officials and other leaders in Philadelphia: Where are the clear statements condemning antisemitism?” Jackson urged.

He emphasized the danger of excusing hateful language, saying, “When hateful language is excused or repeated, it can make hostility seem acceptable and deepen fear and division. Leaders should speak plainly and consistently: antisemitism and hate have no place in our communities.”

Jackson’s memories of racism were rekindled when Major League Baseball visited Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama, in 2024, honoring the Negro Leagues. Reflecting on his experience, Jackson recalled, “The racism when I played here, the difficulty of going through different places where we traveled. I wouldn’t wish it on anybody.” During his time with the Birmingham Black Barons, a minor league affiliate of the Kansas City Athletics, he faced blatant racism.

Jackson shared his harsh experiences: “I would walk into restaurants, they would point at me and say ‘that n—– can’t eat here.’ I would go to a hotel, and they’d say ‘that n—– can’t stay here.'” He acknowledged the support he received from Rollie Fingers, Johnny McNamara, Dave Duncan, Joe and Sharron Rudy, who offered him shelter when he was threatened.

Jackson, now 80, achieved 563 home runs in his career, earning the nickname “Mr. October” after his standout performance in the 1977 World Series Game 6 with the Yankees against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

New York Yankees special advisor Reggie Jackson during practice before a game against the Philadelphia Phillies on June 25, 2018, at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, Pa. (Eric Hartline/USA TODAY Sports)