A coin to commemorate the late Pittsburgh Pirates great Roberto Clemente and to raise money for the foundation that bears his name passed the U.S. House by voice vote on Wednesday.
According to the legislation, $5 gold, $1 silver, and half-dollar coins featuring Mr. Clemente’s likeness will be produced. The money raised from the sale will go to the Roberto Clemente Foundation to help pay for its expenses, which include historic preservation, youth sports, education, and disaster relief.
“Roberto Clemente was a humanitarian, a civil rights advocate, a baseball legend, and a Marine,” U.S. Representative Adriano Espaillat, D-N.Y., who was the bill’s primary proponent, stated on the House floor. We pay tribute to his life, legacy, and lasting influence on the world by passing this law.
The measure still must be approved by the U.S. Senate.
Born in Puerto Rico, the Hall of Fame outfielder lost his life in 1972 when a plane transporting supplies to aid in Nicaragua’s earthquake recovery crashed. Major League Baseball s community service award is named for him.
U.S. Representative Monica De La Cruz, a Republican from Texas, referred to him as perhaps the best Pirate to ever don the jersey on the House floor.
She continued by characterizing him as a well-known philanthropist and a fervent supporter of racial equality.
Additionally, it has been suggested that he may throw out a batter in Pennsylvania while fielding the ball in New York, according to U.S. Representative Chris Deluzio, a Democrat from Aspinwall.
According to Mr. Deluzio, he will always hold a particular place in the hearts of Pirates supporters and countless others around our nation. His tragic death was mourned by so many as he was seeking to serve those in need. His effect and legacy from his excellence on and off the field endure to this day.
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