Throwback Thursday: A Night of Inspiration and Community at the Reconciliation Tour Premiere

Watch Reconciliation Tour this Saturday at 9:30 pm on FOX 13 Seattle, and stick around for Back2Besa at 10:30 pm

We’re throwing it back to an unforgettable evening in 2022 when we witnessed the magic of community, connection, and the spirit of baseball at the premiere of Reconciliation Tour—Converge Media's Emmy-nominated short film which follows the journey of Baseball Beyond Borders players through the South. The event took place at T-Mobile Park’s Ellis Pavilion, where members of Baseball Beyond Borders (BBB) and supporters gathered to relive the powerful journey taken by the 18u all-star team over that summer.

The premiere brought back poignant memories of the tour, allowing everyone present to reflect on the journey. 

“Reconciliation and healing were palpable throughout the event,” said Bookie Gates, founder of Baseball Beyond Borders. “We laughed, cried, and connected deeply with the stories that drive our mission to increase access to baseball for African American youth.”

The excitement was palpable as faces from the Mariners family filled the room, including Mariners Hall of Famer and current Mariners Manager Dan Wilson and Former Mariners President Katie Griggs. Wilson shared his heartfelt connection with the John and Vera Mae Perkins Foundation, which helped organize the camp in Jackson.

Director Brady McAtee also joined the celebration, beaming with pride as he reflected on the film’s impact. 

“The premiere was incredible. Showcasing the influence BBB had on the kids in Jackson was truly special,” he said, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to share these vital stories.

Over 100 community members, including players, coaches, and alumni from Jackson State University, came together for the occasion, enjoying a meal and conversation. The youth panel was a highlight, with Malachai Wayman, JT Wayne, DJ Parker, Jordan Hurd, and Coach Joe Townsend sharing their inspiring experiences and discussing the profound connection between baseball and community.

Rewind to the day when Gates first met Converge Media CEO Omari Salisbury, who was then working at the stadium selling snacks to fund his dream of uplifting Black stories across the Pacific Northwest. 

“Back then, basically working for tips, I didn’t know that I would be right here in this room but I knew that I would be right here out front uplifting stories of the Black experience from across the Pacific Northwest,” Salisbury recalled, reflecting on the growth of Converge Media and the importance of storytelling.

The premiere of Reconciliation Tour wasn’t just a screening; it was a celebration of resilience, hope, and the healing power of baseball. As the night drew to a close, Gates reminded everyone of the journey we all share: “Our community witnessed the sights and sounds of our time in Jackson and Montgomery, journeying together toward reconciliation and healing through baseball.”

As we look back on this powerful evening, we’re reminded of the strength found in community and the stories that unite us all. Here’s to more moments like this, where past and present converge to inspire a brighter future.

Don’t miss a special airing of Reconciliation Tour during Converge Media’s Super Saturday this weekend on FOX 13 Seattle. The film will air at 9:30 pm on October 19th, followed by the season 2 premiere of Back2Besa at 10:30 pm.