Pitching Unity: Moreno Valley Mayor Ulises Cabrera & the Negro League Community Softball Game

The rich legacy of Negro League Baseball was front and center at Moreno Valley's Woodland Park on May 31 during the Community Softball Game organized by James Harris, founder of the African American History presentation series, UnVeiled: History in Focus. SoCal Voices was on hand to cheer for the players, meet members of the community, and give away a Negro League Baseball Bomber Jacket. 

In this inspiring episode, SoCal Voices host Angela Ross sits down with Moreno Valley Mayor Ulises Cabrera to reflect on the power of community-driven events and their deeper cultural significance. Recorded live at the celebration honoring the Negro Leagues, Mayor Cabrera shares why it's vital to preserve and spotlight history—especially stories rooted in resilience, equity, and social justice.

From discussing Moreno Valley’s role as one of California’s most diverse cities to envisioning its growth over the next five years, the mayor outlines a future rich with opportunity, inclusive development, and civic pride. The Mayor also talks about SoCal’s unmatched diversity, the iconic “M” mountain, and what makes Moreno Valley feel like home.

Events like Moreno Valley’s Community Softball Game honor the past and inspire the future. By remembering the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us, we strengthen the cultural fabric of our cities and empower the next generation to lead with awareness, pride, and purpose.

RESOURCES:

Learn more about how this event got started! Check out the April 10 SoCal Voices Podcast episode featuring Negro League Community Softball Game organizer James Harris.

Celebrate the legacy of Negro League Baseball throughout the year with the Black Baseball Greats Collection by visionary artist Kelly Jackson, owner of Skillz Recognize Skillz Clothing Brand & Print Shop. You will find unique, original apparel and prints that pay tribute to the great legacy of Negro League Baseball players.

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