(SKILLMAN, NJ) -- Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum (SSAAM) is proud to announce its 2nd annual partnership with the Somerset Patriots for a fundraising event honoring the legacy of the New York Black Yankees and the Negro Leagues. This event will occur at TD Bank Ballpark on Friday, August 30, 2024, featuring a special game between the Somerset Patriots (NYY) and the Reading Fightin' Phils (PHI).

SSAAM is Central New Jersey's only museum telling the rich local and regional stories of African Americans from the time of the transatlantic slave trade to the present day. We are happy to support this fantastic event which honors the history and legacy of the New York Black Yankees, a Negro League baseball team of the 1930s and '40s. The Negro League teams gave African Americans a path to play professional baseball when the Major League Baseball excluded Black athletes due to racist attitudes and structures.

On August 30th, the Somerset Patriots will pay tribute to the Negro Leagues by donning special uniforms commemorating the New York Black Yankees and will feature the SSAAM logo. These unique player-worn jerseys will be available for live auction, with all proceeds supporting SSAAM's mission of preserving African American history and culture.

The Somerset Patriots are a fantastic organization and a great supporter of SSAAM's mission. SSAAM is excited to partner for this special event for the 2nd year because American baseball was among the first high-profile spaces to integrate Black players, and it's an opportunity to celebrate the rich heritage of the Negro Leagues while raising awareness about the importance of preserving African American History.

Tickets for the game are available for $15, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting SSAAM's mission. Tickets are available for purchase online.

SSAAM applauds the Somerset Patriots and this special event to honor and celebrate the Black Yankees, Negro League baseball, and the tremendous impact that Black athletes have had on the game. They invite the community to join them for an exciting day at the ballpark. Bring your friends and family for a fun-filled evening while supporting a worthy cause!

Somerset Patriots vs. Reading Fightin Phils Minor League Baseball Game on Friday, August 30, 2024.  A special pre-game ceremony begins at 5:45pm, game time is 6:35pm. TD Bank Ballpark is located at 1 Patriots Park in Bridgewater, New Jersey.

For more information about the event or to learn more about SSAAM, please visit SSAAMuseum.ORG