Rahm Emanuel, Kenny Williams, White House, Jesse Jackson React to Jackie Robinson West Decision

Mayor Rahm Emanuel

“These remarkable boys brought our entire city together and reminded all Chicagoans how important it is to support our children. They created memories that will last a lifetime and nothing will take that away, and they showed the nation their character both on and off the field. The city remains united in its support of these great children and in our hearts, they will always be champions in Chicago.”
via City Hall statement

Chicago White Sox executive Kenny Williams

“The fact is, for me, this is an adult problem, not a kids problem. The adults responsible should have to answer. ... These young men united a city in a way that I have not seen this city united to support a singular cause. It gave hope to a lot of kids in the community, not so different from a community in which I came up, where you’re looking for things, you’re looking for reasons to believe in something.”
via NBC Chicago

White House spokesman Josh Earnest, on behalf of President Barack Obama

“Some dirty dealing by some adults doesn’t take anything away from the accomplishments of those young men.”
via Chicago Tribune

Rev. Jesse Jackson

”I was upset to the point of tears this morning. ... There’s nothing these kids have done to have their championship erased. I hope the Las Vegas team will have the strength of character not to accept.”
via Chicago Sun-Times

ALSO ON PATCH

• Jackie Robinson West Little League Stripped of U.S. Title for Cheating
• Death Threats for Suburban Little League Official Who Reported Jackie Robinson West

photo credit: Screengrab via BlogCDN