The Atlanta Braves have launched the Henry Louis Aaron Fund to boost Black representation in Major League Baseball. To kickstart the fund, the Braves have pledged $1 million to help increase minority representation in Major League Baseball front office and managerial positions.
"We want to continue Hank's amazing work in growing diversity within baseball now and in the years to come," Atlanta Braves Chairman Terry McGuirk said.
"I believe this seed money is just the beginning for this growing fund and I'm certain other companies and organizations who have worked with Hank over the years will join us and add to this call to action to develop talent and increase the diversity on the field and in the front offices across the league."
Major League Baseball has jumped on board to support this new effort. The league has offered $500,000 to help propel their initiative.
"Henry Aaron was a Hall of Fame player, a front office executive, a mentor, a colleague and a friend. In each of these roles, he was a tireless advocate for better representation of people of color throughout our sport," Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said.
"As a philanthropist and businessman, this celebrated power hitter was most passionate about empowering others. We are proud to honor his legacy through this joint donation to the Henry Louis Aaron Fund, and commit ourselves to continue building toward greater diversity and representation in the game Hank loved dearly."
Increasing Black representation was an effort Aaron committed to throughout his career. Aaron mentored a number of young Black players throughout his career and partnered with Major League Baseball to host events such as the Hank Aaron Invitational.
The all-time great tragically passed away on Friday at 86 after paving the way for generations of baseball players to come. He leaves behind a wife and several children and grandchildren.
Photo Credit: Getty Images