September 29, 2020 | BY AAGD STAFF
This short film explores the contributions of the Bermudian golfer Rafael Louis “Kid” Corbin, who led the charge against segregation in golf. Interviews include Dr. Jeffrey Sammons, chief historical consultant to the project and principal on-screen presence. Sammons is a New York University professor and author of Louis Rafael ‘Kid’ Corbin: Breaking Golf’s Colour Line in America, Canada, and Bermuda. Also appearing in the short film is Bermuda’s Progressive Labour Party Minister of Parliament Kim Swan along with Mr. Corbin’s niece, Ms. Norma Durant, and Noel Van Putten, not a relative but someone who knew Corbin.
Corbin challenged the color line in golf in his native Bermuda as well as in the US and Canada. His golfing skills were outstanding, he forged his own path in the midst of overwhelming discrimination competing in tournaments with limited resources, borrowing money for entry fees along the way. Corbin was a golf writer, promoter, referee, and instructor to legendary world heavy-weight champion boxer Joe Louis among others.
“It’s just a remarkable testament to his boldness to his bravery, to his courage, to his perseverance, and to his dedication,” says Dr. Jeffrey Sammons. “Many people don’t understand the social, political and economical significance of golf, and of sport.”
Corbin was resolute in trying to break down barriers and challenged the racial mores of the United States, taking on the United States Golf Association (USGA) for not allowing Blacks to play in its Championships and called them out publicly for refusing to accept the applications of Black golfers. He was the first Black to play in the Michigan Open, the Canadian Open, and the Metropolitan Golf Association Professional Championship before being pulled off the course.
“It never would have been possible for persons like me to traverse through this world without the efforts of Louis Corbin. I find it very respectful of what he was prepared to do,” — MP Kim Swan.
