This program examines the ways in which sports has provided a platform to illuminate, contest and advance the rights of all people.  The historical events that we look at include World War II, women in baseball and the passage of Title IX, the anti-discrimination law which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2022. 

In support of this content through 2023, the Museum is hosting a comprehensive exhibition about social activist and tennis champion, Billie Jean King.  Organized by The New-York Historical Society, BILLIE JEAN KING: CHAMPION. ACTIVIST. LEGEND encompasses not just a retrospective of King’s extraordinary and ground-breaking athletic career, but also her life as a change agent for women and LGBTQ+ individuals both on and off the court.

Students will:

• Connect the history of women in baseball to women in baseball during World War II and the passing of Title IX.
• Learn about trailblazing athletes like Althea Gibson, Billie Jean King, the Williams sisters, among others.
• Think critically about equity in sports with respect to gender and sexuality.

NJ State Standards

HISTORY/SOCIAL STUDIES, GRADE 6-8

Integrate visual information (e.g., in charts, graphs, photographs, videos, or maps) with other information in print and digital texts.

D1.2.3-5. ELA, GRADE 5

Identify disciplinary concepts and ideas associated with a compelling question that are open to different interpretations.