Guest columnist
Time and time again through our history, occurrences in sports have assumed larger meaning. Jackie Robinson broke barriers in baseball long before the culmination of the civil rights movement. Muhammad Ali became a symbol of those questioning the Vietnam War. Pat Tillman embodied the spirit of service when he left a lucrative NFL career to serve after the events of Sept. 11.
Today, sport will serve as a symbol in our town. Duke and N.C. Central University will meet for the first time on the football field in a game that's been a long time in the making.
For much of Durham's history, its white and black communities have had a complicated and at times troubled relationship. The city furnished many examples of courage and leadership during the civil rights movement and today provides many examples of the strength that can come with diversity and common endeavor.
The development over many years of the bonds between Duke and North Carolina Central University is a case in point. Athletics has been a part of this, dating back to the remarkable "Secret Game" of 1944 when an all-white basketball team from Duke traveled across town to play an all-black team from NCCU.
Each time the schools meet in a new sport -- or collaborate on a new academic or research venture -- it symbolizes a new tie between two of Durham's most valued institutions. I have been privileged to witness this relationship first-hand. My family had ties to Duke even before I arrived there as a faculty member in 1973. And one of the pleasures of representing Durham since it was added to the Fourth District in 1999 has been the opportunity to collaborate with NCCU on many matters, large and small.
Later this evening, after the touchdowns have been scored and the field falls silent, the meaning of this game should remain with us. We must continue to strive to live more fully in relationship to one another because doing so enriches all of us. That this special game is happening in my district makes me very proud to represent Durham and all who will pull for the Eagles and the Blue Devils this weekend.
See you at the game.
David Price represents the Fourth District in the U. S. House of Representatives.
