Clearview Golf Club, East Canton, Ohio

Yesterday, I read about this golf club in The Wall Street Journal.

The story behind this golf club is remarkable. William Powell, an African-American , is the founder of the club. The very reason Mr. Powell decided to build a golf course of his own is to have a club that is open to everyone regardless of their skin colors.

Mr. Powell, now in his 90's, through his caddying jobs, learned to golfing during the time when discrimination against blacks in America was rampant. When he competed in golf tournaments in his teen’s, the tournament officials deliberately changed playing rules to disqualify his good play. Therefore, while growing up he was shunned from playing at many golf courses. He also faced discrimination during the war fighting the Germans in Europe. And he was declined a G.I. loan after the war. But he never let this wretched experience discourage him. Instead he built Clearview Golf Club that welcomes everyone.

After the war , funded by investors, Mr. Powell started to build his all-inclusive golf course during the night after his regular day job. He built the first nine holes with his own hands. And the rest is history. Many years ago, Clearview Golf Club became one of the Historic Places in America. In addition to many other distinguished recognitions the Powell family received over the years, Tiger Woods Foundation also has a scholarship in honor of Mr. Powell and his late wife.

Mr. Powell’s idea to eliminate racism is so extraordinary. He has set a great example for others who are either being discriminated or bullied. He fights back against racial discrimination with dignity and hard work so he can make the world a better one for all of us. - Ayee