The annual event pays tribute to Ricky Byrdsong, Northwestern University’s first Black men’s basketball coach, who was killed by a white supremacist.
EVANSTON, Ill. (WLS) — Thousands turned out in Evanston on Father’s Day for the Ricky Byrdsong Race Against Hate, an annual community gathering held in memory of the former Northwestern University basketball coach.
The event included family-friendly 5K and 10K routes, bringing runners and walkers together to honor Byrdsong’s life and lasting legacy. Participants hit the course side by side in a visible display of solidarity, reflection and remembrance.
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“We walked through this neighborhood every night, it was a way for us to come together to show our love and support for one another and it was how we grieved,” said Sherialyn Byrdsong, founder of the event and widow of Ricky Byrdsong.
Byrdsong was shot and killed 27 years ago by a white supremacist while walking with his children near the family’s home in Skokie. The shooter later died by suicide following a shooting spree that unfolded over several days.
After the tragedy, Sherialyn Byrdsong said she made a conscious decision to respond with healing, connection and unity rather than division.
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“This race was intended to make a declaration that no matter what the color of your skin is, your religion, your cultural background, all of humanity is one race against hate,” she said.
Those involved in the race said the event remains a powerful reminder that communities have a role to play in standing up to hate.
“More importantly everyone is out here in community to show that community is our strongest response to hate,” said Cherese R. Ledet, president and CEO of YWCA of Evanston North Shore.
The event also serves as a reminder that efforts to combat hate must continue.
“The best response to an act of hate is an act of love,” Sherialyn Byrdsong said.
Each year, the race brings together runners, families and neighbors to honor Byrdsong’s memory and reinforce a message of unity and resilience.
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