DUNMORE, Pa. — Penn State Scranton is hosting a screening and Q&A session of the documentary, “The Negro Baseball Leagues: An American Legacy” with filmmaker Byron Motley on Tuesday, March 24.
Byron Motley is the son of Bob Motley, who was a league umpire. Motley's film explores the leagues’ history and features interviews with public figures such as Hank Aaron, Maya Angelou, former President Bill Clinton and others. The film and live Q&A aim to educate the public about Negro League players and their contributions during the 20th century that still impact the country today.
In addition to being a filmmaker, Motley is also an accomplished singer, songwriter, lecturer, author and photographer. As a performer, he has worked on Broadway and performed with well-known artists such as Natalie Cole, Dionne Warwick, Celine Dion, Mary J. Blige, Barbara Streisand, Barry Manilow, Kelly Clarkson, John Legend and the Boston Pops Orchestra.
According to Motley, the Negro National League was founded by Andrew “Rube” Foster in 1920; its games were fast-paced and aggressive, emphasizing speed, base-stealing and daring plays to entertain large crowds. The league was popular until 1947 but began to decline after Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier, becoming the first Black American to play Major League Baseball in the modern era. While the Negro National League disbanded in 1948, the Negro American League continued through the 1950s, eventually folding in 1960.
This event is free and open to the public. It will take place Tuesday, March 24, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in the Study Learning Center’s Sherbine Lounge.
Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations or who have questions about physical access should contact Jordan Fritz in advance of this event at JMF7583@psu.edu or 570-963-2690. Fritz can also be contacted for additional details and information.