As the sun sets on another year, Maybelle Blair, an emblematic figure in women’s baseball, celebrated her 97th birthday. Known affectionately as “All the Way Mae,” Blair’s journey from the baseball diamond to becoming an LGBTQ icon is nothing short of remarkable.
Blair, a foundational member of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, famously inspired the 1992 film and subsequent Amazon series, “A League of Their Own.” Her career, beginning with the Peoria Redwings in 1948, later saw her dominate the National Women’s Softball League in Chicago during the 1950s.
A Late Bloomer in LGBTQ Advocacy
Beyond the field, Blair’s life is a tapestry of courage and authenticity. In a groundbreaking moment at the Tribeca Festival in 2022, she publicly came out, a revelation that came as a surprise to many, including herself. Blair’s honesty has not only added a rich layer to her legacy but also cast a spotlight on the intersectionality of sports and LGBTQ identities.
Her words at the event resonated with profound sincerity and courage, “I hid for 75, 85 years, and this is actually basically the first time I’ve ever come out.” This statement underscored the often-untold struggles of LGBTQ athletes in professional sports.
A Legacy Beyond the Field
Blair’s impact extends beyond her personal revelations. She has been a vital force in advocating for women’s inclusion in baseball, a sport traditionally dominated by men. Her efforts with the AAGPBL Players Association and their “Women in Baseball” exhibit at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum exemplify her commitment to elevating women in the sport.
As the community and the world at large celebrate Blair, her story becomes a beacon of hope and progress. It’s a reminder that the journey towards inclusivity and acceptance in sports, though challenging, is steadily moving forward.