Today In Black History On January 18th, Grant Fuhr Became The 1st Black Professional Hockey Player

0 Posted by William Frazier - January 18, 2016 - January, SPORTS, Today In Black History

Dr. Daniel Hale Williams was born (January 18, 1856), who is considered by many to be a pioneer in the surgery field. His career accomplishments include performing the second documented successful pericardium surgery, and founding Provident Hospital, a non-segregated option for those in need and the first of its kind in the United States. It also functioned as a training school for nurses and became a very important place for Black citizens who didn’t want to deal with segregation laws of the current time.
William L. Dawson was elected chairman (January 18, 1949) of the House of Expenditures Committee. As the first Black man to head a standing committee in Congress, he performed well above expectations and paved the way for other Black politicians.
Southern University closed (January 18, 1962) on this day due to protests and demonstrations against the expulsion of sit-in activists. This is a historic moment since Louisiana’s Southern University was the largest all-black state college in the South. This action became a widespread epidemic to control students that disturbed school activities at universities throughout the nation.
Robert C. Weaver became the first Black presidential cabinet member (January 18, 1966) when he joined the secretary of Housing and Urban Affairs. Under the Johnson Administration, he was one of several Black advisors that became a part of the program.
Grant Fuhr became the first black hockey player (January 18, 1981) when he was drafted in the first round by the Edmonton Oilers. The Hall of Famer was selected 8th overall and was one of the most dominating goalies of his time. Throughout his career, he earned 5 Stanley Cups, 7 All-Star appearances and is widely considered to be a trendsetter for the league. He is on an exclusive list of NHL goaltenders with at least 300 total victories. Since retiring in 2000, he has stayed around the game as both a coach and commentator.