More Than a Number: Remembering and Honoring 42

UNBOXED with Doug Glanville

As history continues to be interpreted—and at times revised to fit new narratives—Jackie Robinson Day offers an opportunity to ground ourselves in something real and lasting. It is more than a day to honor a man; it’s a chance to reflect deeply on a journey that helped shape our nation’s conscience. It’s a moment to double down on 42.

What is the significance of a single day? Truthfully, one day is not enough. I could talk about Jackie Robinson every day of the year and still fall short of capturing the full depth of what he and his family endured, and the magnitude of what they changed. Their legacy continues to resonate. And, in many ways, their struggle continues.

This year, I found myself digging into my own archives—looking back at what I’ve written and said about Jackie over time. Wow. It is eye-opening to see how my perspective has evolved. Fatherhood, international travel, politics, MLB retirement—each new chapter of my life has reshaped how I understand Jackie’s story. And, his story, in turn, has reshaped my values, my world view, and my career.