The state House of Representatives passed a resolution authored by state Rep. Jamie Flick, R-South Williamsport, recognizing the contributions African American baseball players made to the game and acknowledges the significant impact the Negro Leagues had on the civil rights movement nationwide.

“In 1865, one of the first Negro baseball clubs was formed in Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Phythians,” Flick said, according to a news release. “For over a century and a half, Pennsylvania has been a shining example of how sports, specifically baseball, can be a place of inclusion. This resolution ensures that legacy is honored and the stories of these groundbreaking players continue to be shared.”

Flick, an avid baseball fan, belongs to the Williamsport chapter of the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR). This chapter, the news release said, is known as the George Stovey chapter. Stovey, who was born and lived in Williamsport, is widely recognized as one of the best left-handed pitchers of the 19th century, but unfortunately, because of the color of his skin, he was not allowed to play in the major leagues.

Flick credits SABR members in the Williamsport, Harrisburg and Philadelphia chapters for suggesting the idea of the resolution. He said he wants to ensure players like Stovey receive the recognition they were long denied.

“Baseball is America’s pastime, and I think it’s past time George Stovey and great players like him are recognized,” Flick said, according to the news release. “Without proper recognition, Stovey and so many players like him have been left out of the Baseball Hall of Fame.”