November 11, 2020 | BY AAGD STAFF
Arif Khatib, Founder and President Emeritus of the Multi-Ethnic Sport Hall of Fame (MESHOF) will host the organization’s 2020 Silent Auction to raise funds to complete their film entitled “Because They Believed,” a 90-minute documentary film containing interviews of athletic trailblazers that were the first to break through racial barriers to participate and excel in their particular sport.
The film shares the struggles of an era that covers the last 70 years, as pioneers tell how they overcame obstacles to become successful and respected professionals, boldly integrating sports that were segregated and the tales of “minority athletic trailblazers, who broke through racial divide….”
These are the stories of forgotten male and female athletes and coaches who competed from 1940 to the present; The film shares stories of perseverance, maintaining dignity and the dedication that changed the world of sports forever. They are stories that will educate and inspire diverse communities and memorialize the lives of these pioneers who helped open the doors for the professional athletes of color
today.
“We aim to reach our financial goal to finish the production of this historic film!” said author and filmmaker Khatib, an Oakland, Calif., resident in a statement. “We graciously request any support you can provide within your level of comfort, which will be noted, and recognized.” Supporters can do this by participating in the silent auction beginning on at 5PM PT on Friday, November 13 through November 20, where bidding is open on a variety of one-of-a-kind sports memorabilia!
The MESHOF will also host a “LIVE” Virtual Gala and auction on Friday Nov 20th at 5:00 P.M. (PST). Visit the below link for a sneak peek at the exciting items that will be available: https://paybee.io/@meshof@2
ABOUT THE MULTI-ETHNIC SPORTS HALL OF FAME
The Multi-Ethnic Sports Hall of Fame (formerly African American Ethnic Sports Hall of Fame) was established in 2000 in Oakland, California to broaden public understanding of ethnic history and celebrate the role of cultural diversity in the growth of professional sports.
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MESHOF gives the world an opportunity better to understand the impact African Americans and other ethnic groups on professional sports and society. Over 350 retired athletes and coaches have been enshrined. Over 200 community leaders have been honored at our induction ceremonies.
In addition, more than 125 sports legends and over 50 active players support our Hall of Fame Programs.
We have also honored many non-minorities with various community awards, because these honorees have a deep-seated commitment to community service.
They help keep our community whole. With society becoming more multi-racial, multi-cultural and multi-ethnic, The Hall began inducting athletes no matter their race, creed or color, since 2010.
