Little-Known Black History Fact: The Jack Johnson Pardon

Image by John McNab via Flickr

By: Erica Taylor, The Tom Joyner Morning Show

Sen. John McCain and New York Rep. Peter King, who pushed for a posthumous pardon for late, great heavyweight champion Jack Johnson in 2005, have recently re-opened their request. After asking for a pardon for Jackson in 2005, both the House and Senate passed resolutions unanimously. Now, with a committee that includes Rep. Charles Rangel, actor Samuel L. Jackson, retired boxer Sugar Ray Leonard, rapper Chuck D, filmmaker Ken burns and Johnson’s own great-great nieces and nephews, the push for Jackson’s pardon has been re-established for the Obama administration. CONTINUE....

Senator McCain and His Jack Johnson Campaign

By Keith Josef Adkins

I don't know whether to laugh my butt off or weep foolishly. Senator John McCain and Representative Peter King have finally drafted a letter to President Obama on the matter of race and boxing. McCain, a longtime boxing advocate, wants Obama to issue a posthumous pardon to Jack Johnson, the first African American Heavyweight Champion of the World.

Senator McCain and His Jack Johnson Campaign....

Senate urges Obama to pardon first black champ

By FREDERIC J. FROMMER

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate is urging President Barack Obama to pardon the late black heavyweight champion Jack Johnson, who was sent to prison nearly a century ago because of his romantic ties with a white woman.

The Senate approved the resolution by voice vote Wednesday.

Senate urges Obama to pardon first black champ....