South Middlesex Times

New Jersey has officially designated April 9 as Paul Robeson Day to honor Rutgers University's distinguished alumnus, Paul Robeson. As one of the university's most celebrated figures, Robeson will be recognized annually on his birthday under a new bill signed by Governor Phil Murphy.

The legislation was sponsored by state senators Shirley K. Turner and Andrew Zwicker. Turner described Robeson as "a towering force of intellect, talent, and courage, a true trailblazer who embodied the very best of New Jersey’s spirit." She praised his contributions to various fields, including athletics, the arts, activism, and academia, which have left a lasting impact on history.

Rutgers University has planned events to commemorate the newly established day, following the bill signing. The Paul Robeson Cultural Center will host a breakfast including trivia and prizes, and homages will appear on the Marco Battaglia Video Board at the Busch campus and SHI Stadium in Piscataway. Rutgers University President Jonathan Holloway expressed pride in the recognition of Robeson's legacy.

Born in Princeton in 1898, Robeson was the son of a former slave. He navigated a racially divided America to become a multi-talented scholar, athlete, and activist. At Rutgers, Robeson was a notable achiever and became valedictorian of the Class of 1919, excelling in four sports and earning football All-America honors twice. Despite facing racial barriers in his career as a lawyer, Robeson gained fame as an actor and singer in the late 1920s and 1930s.

As he gained popularity, Robeson became an influential global advocate for racial equality and social justice. His political activism eventually led to his blacklisting and the revocation of his passport. Edward Ramsamy, former chair of the Department of Africana Studies at Rutgers University, emphasized Robeson’s significant impact on democracy and global equality, applauding New Jersey's recognition of his legacy.

Zwicker, one of the bill's sponsors, remarked on Robeson's ongoing influence, stating the day serves "as both a tribute to his extraordinary achievements and a reaffirmation of the values of equality and justice."

Around Rutgers University, Robeson's legacy is memorialized through buildings and organizations named in his honor, including libraries and cultural centers in Camden, Newark, and New Brunswick. In 2019, a plaza honoring Robeson's 100th graduation anniversary was dedicated on campus.

The unveiling of a mural by alumnus Alonzo Adams at SHI Stadium last year further cements Robeson's place in the university's history. Kendall Hall, past president of the Rutgers African-American Alumni Alliance, expressed hope that Paul Robeson Day will offer learning opportunities and honor his significant legacy.