The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation and members of the Community Outreach Committee at the Detroit Athletic Club have worked together to bring a unique educational experience to students in Detroit Public Schools.
In 1934, Gerald R. Ford, a football player at the University of Michigan, threatened to quit the team if the school’s only black player, Willis Ward, was to be benched because of the color of his skin. The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets were scheduled to play in Ann Arbor, but demanded that Ward sit out. Ford was later convinced by Ward to go out on the field. The experience left an indelible mark on both Ford and Ward as they continued to fight for civil rights throughout their careers. This historic event has been made into the play “Victors of Character: a story of loyalty, integrity, and the courage to make a difference,” which was commissioned by the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation.
The play will be performed On Monday, October 21 for students from Spain, Nolan, Davis, and Bunche elementary and middle schools.
After the two daytime performances at Spain Elementary/Middle School, the Detroit Athletic Club will host a special event at 6 p.m. to celebrate President Ford and Judge Ward. Along with the performance, attendees will participate in a tail-gate themed reception and hear remarks by Jack Harbaugh, former coach and father of U of M head coach Jim Harbaugh.
Proceeds from the event will be donated to Detroit Public Schools.
The play was written by Grand Valley State University Theatre Professor Dr. Alli Manville Metz and is directed by Jason James Flannery.
WHEN: Oct. 21, 6 p.m.
Detroit Athletic Club
