Robinson’s Widow Was ‘Appalled’ by Campanis’ Interview Remarks

Rachel Robinson, widow of Jackie Robinson, said Friday that she was shocked by deposed Dodger Vice President Al Campanis’ comments on blacks in baseball Monday night on ABC-TV’s “Nightline” program.

In town for special ceremonies honoring her late husband today at Dodger Stadium, she said she was watching the show because she had been interviewed for it.

“I was absolutely appalled and angered when Campanis came on and made the comments he did,” she said. “I do think he got caught in a situation he couldn’t handle, but the ideas and beliefs were there. He managed to express what was on his mind. . . . They were still his ideas and he has to be responsible for them.

“I feel sorry for the Dodgers and for Peter O’Malley. He has been a good friend over the years. Mr. O’Malley has been one of the more liberal owners. He has been very generous and thoughtful in providing places for former players, and he has done a lot for me. I’m hurt for him, really saddened for him.”

Mrs. Robinson saw some good coming from the incident. “It’s an unfortunate situation, but it certainly has its positive side,” she said. “I’m pleased it has alerted people in a highly emotional way. . . . It seems every 10 years there’s a general review by the media but a lot of it is the cliche approach. Now people have to say, ‘Where do I stand on this?’ It’s close to home. They cannot dismiss it. And this has mobilized the black community.

“This is more the true meaning of the 40th anniversary (of her husband’s breaking baseball’s color barrier). It’s more than celebrating. I have a lot to celebrate, I truly do, but I am also acutely aware of the need to go well beyond where we are now.”