The Texas Rangers baseball team has rekindled interest in a previously secluded statue, bringing it back to light on Monday at Globe Life Field. The “One Riot, One Ranger” statue, which honors the Texas Rangers law enforcement agency, was unveiled after being hidden since 2020. This action comes amidst complex discussions surrounding the agency’s history, which includes accusations of racism. The statue was originally displayed at Dallas Love Field until it was removed during a wave of scrutiny.
In a statement, Russell Molina, a board member of the Texas Ranger Association Foundation, acknowledged the complicated history. “We recognize that the history of the Texas Rangers, like that of our state and nation, includes moments that must be confronted honestly,” he said. Despite the controversies, Molina emphasized that most individuals who have served in the Texas Rangers for over two centuries lived up to the ideals associated with the badge. They “deserve to be remembered for their service, sacrifice, and commitment to the people of Texas,” he added.
The statue, a gift to the City of Dallas back in 1961, faced backlash when it was initially removed. Author Douglas Swanson pointed out that the statue’s model was part of the state’s efforts against integration, a claim that sparked heated debate. Molina has contested this narrative, reaffirming the statue’s significance as representative of broader merit rather than isolated actions.
The statue’s base bears the words “Texas Ranger of 1960” alongside the phrase “One Riot, One Ranger.” This slogan is rooted in an incident from 1896 involving Rangers Captain William McDonald, who, during an illegal prize fight, remarked about the Rangers’ solitary presence in the face of chaos. This historical anecdote plays into the larger narrative of the Texas Rangers as a symbol of law enforcement in Texas.
Ray Davis, the majority owner of the Rangers, reinforced the team’s commitment to supporting various segments of society in his remarks during the unveiling. “Our charter as a baseball club and our foundation is we support… kids, first responders, and law enforcement,” Davis stated. He also expressed pride in the association with the Texas Rangers, describing them as “the point of the spear” in Texas law enforcement. The owner hopes that the more than six million visitors to the stadium annually will consider the statue’s meaning.
Molina further clarified that the statue embodies all Texas Rangers rather than any single individual. He characterized the modern Texas Ranger as a representation of “diversity, integrity, and professionalism” aligned with the values expected of one of the oldest law enforcement agencies in the nation. Both Molina and Davis highlighted a deep sense of pride associated with the Texas Rangers’ legacy and contributions to the state.
This statue joins six others at the stadium, with four paying tribute to individual players like Nolan Ryan and Ivan Rodriguez, as well as honoring the fans and the franchise’s first World Series effort in 2010. These statues collectively create a narrative that intertwines sports with local heritage, fostering a sense of pride and tradition in the heart of Texas.
The return of the “One Riot, One Ranger” statue signifies not just a remembrance of the past but also an opportunity for dialogue about the complexities of history. The Texas Rangers plan to use this moment to reflect on their legacy while looking forward to a more inclusive future.
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