29th Annual Hall of Fame Induction

Syracuse New York offers many opportunities for sports and recreation, whether it be taking advantage of beautiful parks and lakes, sports facilities, or organized community activities throughout Onondaga County.  It’s easy to take for granted all that the area has to offer, however, it’s important to reflect on the places where we now walk, jog, bike, boat, canoe, or just gather, and also on the people who years ago painstakingly helped pave the way for us to enjoy these activities. It’s crucial that we understand and appreciate the significance of historical events, achievements, and local landmarks. Our local history is rich, and much of it highlights the discovery and early production of salt in Onondaga Lake and Onondaga Creek and the construction of the Erie Canal, including the role played by slaves; and there are many different historical accounts from many different perspectives. 

This year the Urban Sports Hall of Fame of Syracuse, New York, for our 29th year, chose to recognize those local historic recreational areas and landmarks in the Syracuse area and the Black Americans who contributed. For 29 years, the Urban Sports Hall of Fame of NY has honored and inducted people, places, or events that have been impactful in shaping local sports and recreational history, and this year we are proud to recognize those who were instrumental in the evolution of everything that Onondaga Lake and the Erie Canal has to offer.  

This July the United States will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This historic milestone is an opportunity to reflect on our nation’s history and to learn about, and from, its past. Just as important and significant is a reminder of the role that Black Americans played in the achievements and events we are celebrating, not just this year but every year. While we celebrate across the country, it is imperative that we here in Syracuse remember our local history and the part that Black Americans, including slaves, played in America’s growth and specifically in Syracuse and Onondaga County.

Carmen Harlow, the Urban Sports Hall of Fame of Syracuse, NY