Eddie A. Perez
Mayor
---NEWS AND COMMUNITY ADVISORY AND RELEASE---
(October 20, 2006)--- On Monday, October 23rd, Mayor Eddie A. Perez will formally present a proclamation to Hartford native John Lobon for standing up for exceptional values and principles back in 1970. That’s when Lobon and eight other African-American student-athletes boycotted the Syracuse football team after their calls for equal treatment and opportunity were not honored.
Mayor Perez says, “John Lobon embodies what Hartford stands for, hope and opportunity. He stood his ground, even in the face of personal sacrifice, for what was right and what is right. It will be an honor to take my point of privilege at Monday’s City Council meeting to formally present this proclamation to this Son of Hartford.”
Mr. Lobon is a graduate of Weaver High School and Syracuse University and is currently a member of the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunity.
Back in 1970, the media mistakenly dubbed the group the “Syracuse 8”, when in fact it was nine African-American players who called for better medical care for injured players, stronger academic support for African-American student-athletes, the right to compete fairly for any position in the starting line-up, and for racial integration of the football coaching staff. Since this historic boycott, the group has been honored by Syracuse University for their conviction.
Monday’s special moment will take place in City Council Chambers at 7 p.m. on the second floor of City Hall, 550 Main Street in Downtown Hartford.
For more information on the Mayor’s role, please contact Sarah Barr, Director of Communications, at (860) 522-4888 x6217.