Pittsburgh Review

In February, during Black History Month, stories of individuals who broke racial barriers are shared to honor their contributions. One such story is that of Larry Brown, a former Steelers tight end and tackle who grew up in the segregated South.

Brown faced segregation daily in his hometown of Starke, Florida. He was restricted from eating at certain restaurants, using specific entrances at doctor's offices, and attending schools designated for white children. This began to change with the Civil Rights Act of 1964 which ended segregation in public places.

By 1965, desegregation allowed Brown to consider transferring to Bradford High School which had a football team and had recently won a state championship. In 1966, he joined their spring practice and later transferred there for his senior year.

Brown credits legendary coach David Hurse for helping him fit into the team despite initial apprehensions. "I can tell you, he was just one of the best coaches I've ever been around," said Brown. Coach Hurse's support helped Brown overcome challenges and integrate successfully into the team.

His time at Bradford High School led to a scholarship at the University of Kansas and eventually being drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1971. Brown described his experience with the Steelers as ideal due to their community focus and fair opportunities under Coach Chuck Noll and owner Art Rooney Sr.

The NFL's Rooney Rule reflects these values by promoting diversity in key positions within teams. "When I was a player...they just loved Mr. (Art) Rooney (Sr.)," recalled Brown about Pittsburgh’s community respect for Rooney.

Today, Larry Brown owns Applebee's restaurants in Pittsburgh but reflects on his past with gratitude for those who supported him despite societal norms of segregation. "It should never have been the case," he stated about segregation while recognizing that understanding others fosters change.

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