By honoring the Greensboro Six, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts ensures that their story is not forgotten and that the lessons learned from their bravery continue to inspire and guide future generations.
Source: Whyndham Championship Honors the Legacy of the Greenboro Six. Photo Credit: Wyndham Rewards
Black Enterprise had the opportunity to discuss the significance of the Greensboro Six, Wyndham’s commitment to community, and the creation of opportunities for young black and brown golfers.
Bravery and Resistance
This courageous act eventually led to the desegregation of Gillespie Golf Course, which later became the venue for the Wyndham Championship. The tournament holds historical significance as it was the first PGA Tour event in the South to welcome a Black player, the legendary Charlie Sifford. Today, Gillespie Golf Course is home to First Tee – Central Carolina, a program dedicated to empowering local youth through golf, continuing the legacy of breaking barriers and creating opportunities.
Honoring History
Multiple accounts of targeted actions to rewrite history have occurred throughout the country. Some of these attempts have already seen success. In Florida, revised curriculum standards now prevent students from learning the accurate history of slavery. Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley recently reinterpreted her state’s history by claiming that the Civil War was about “the role of government.” Additionally, a Republican lawmaker in Colorado opposed Black History Month, arguing that it promotes “false history.”
This mural project is a testament to Wyndham Hotels and Resorts’ unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The company’s initiatives, including BOLD, which aims to advance Black entrepreneurship in the hospitality industry, are part of a larger vision for a more inclusive future. By supporting projects like this, Wyndham is not just celebrating the past but also paving the way for a more diverse and equitable future.
Ballentine and his close friend, fellow artist Andre Trenier, completed the mural in two weeks. “To see it and be able to touch the same ground that they walked on, and see the greens they saw when it was unacceptable for everyone is powerful,” remarks Ballentine.
They worked side by side using scissor lifts and ladders, wielding a vibrant selection of spray paint cans to transform the expansive wall on the side of the First Tee-Central Carolina building at Gillespie Park Golf Club into a historical masterpiece.
In addition to the mural, Wyndham Rewards has commissioned a short-form documentary directed by Eternal Polk, a two-time Emmy-nominated director and writer. Polk, known for his work on documentaries, music videos, and branded content, brings a unique perspective to the story of the Greensboro Six.
This story is pivotal in black history, which I did not know about,” shares Polk. “So when I first discovered this happened, I wondered how I did not know about it. Bringing this story to life, especially in a community where black people do not often see our accomplishments seen, displayed, recognized, and honored, says you cannot erase our history and stories.”
The documentary, a labor of love and respect, seeks to preserve the memory of the Greensboro Six. By highlighting the power of standing up for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming adversity, it serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of individual actions. It is a tribute to the Greensboro Six and an inspiration for future generations to continue the fight for equality.
“Murals and visual stories are where we cement our history so people can see it.”
A Call To Action
The efforts to honor the Greensboro Six through art and film are more than just a celebration of the past; they are a call to action for the present and future. Ryan Wilson, CEO and Executive Director of First Tee – Central Carolina, emphasizes the importance of carrying on this legacy: “The game of golf is this powerful tool that can create opportunities, especially for Black and brown youth,” he said. “The Greensboro Six created opportunities for everybody else to follow, and now the best thing we can do to carry on their legacy is continue to use the game of golf to create new opportunities.”
By commemorating these men and their legacy, Wyndham recognizes the historical significance of the Greensboro Six and reinforces its commitment to fostering inclusivity and breaking down barriers in both the sports and hospitality industries. The mural and documentary serve as poignant reminders that the fight for equality is ongoing and that the actions of individuals can have a profound and lasting impact on society.
As the Wyndham Championship continues to play a crucial role in determining the fate of PGA TOUR players each August, it also stands as a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the enduring legacy of those who fought for change. By honoring the Greensboro Six, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts ensures that their story is not forgotten and that the lessons learned from their bravery continue to inspire and guide future generations. The Wyndham Championship is not just about golf; it’s about celebrating the progress made and recognizing the work still in pursuing equality and justice.
Source: Black Enterprise
