Citywide Celebration Builds Momentum for Historic Bulldogs Game at Wrigley Field
Alabama A&M Alumni Witness Chicago Mayor Proclaim Inaugural HBCU Baseball Week
Alabama A&M University alumni gathered in Chicago as Mayor Brandon Johnson officially proclaimed April 26–May 2 as HBCU Baseball Week, marking a historic moment for Black college athletics and elevating national attention ahead of a landmark game for the Bulldogs.
The proclamation, announced April 26 in partnership with Black Baseball Media, celebrates the enduring legacy of historically Black colleges and universities and their impact on the sport of baseball. Members of the Chicago Chapter of the Alabama A&M University Alumni Association were present for the signing, reinforcing Bulldog pride and the University’s growing national presence.
“To see the City of Chicago recognize HBCU Baseball Week in such a powerful way is incredibly meaningful for our alumni community,” said Connieve Wheaton, president of the Alabama A&M University Chicago Alumni Chapter. “This moment is bigger than one game—it’s about honoring the legacy of HBCUs and showing the next generation what’s possible. Having Alabama A&M take the field at Wrigley Field is something we take great pride in, and our Chicago alumni are excited to show up and support the Bulldogs on this historic stage.”
The weeklong celebration will culminate May 2 when Alabama A&M faces Prairie View A&M in the first HBCU baseball game played at Wrigley Field. The historic matchup will follow a Major League Baseball game between the Chicago Cubs and the Arizona Diamondbacks, scheduled for a 2:20 p.m. Eastern first pitch.
Excitement continues to build as the Bulldogs prepare to take the field on one of baseball’s most iconic stages, a venue deeply rooted in the sport’s history and legacy. For alumni and supporters in Chicago, the moment represents both a celebration of tradition and a powerful step forward for HBCU athletics.
The mayor’s proclamation highlights the significance of the moment for the city, the sport and future generations of student-athletes.
“Whereas historically Black colleges and universities have long served as pillars of excellence, opportunity and cultural pride, nurturing generations of scholars, leaders and athletes who have shaped the fabric of our nation, the City of Chicago is proud to host the inaugural HBCU Baseball Week, a historic celebration bringing together student-athletes, alumni, fans and community members to honor the tradition, pride and competitive spirit of HBCU baseball. Therefore, I, Brandon Johnson, mayor of the greatest city in the world, the City of Chicago, do hereby proclaim April 26–May 2, 2026, as HBCU Baseball Week in Chicago.”