Mobile dedicates Isom Cleland Civil Rights Memorial Park honoring Levon Manzie's vision

The dedication ceremony for the Isom Cleland Civil Rights Memorial Park took place on February 6, 2025, in Mobile, Alabama. The event began with a warm welcome and acknowledgment of Council Member Levon Manzie, whose vision for the park was instrumental in its creation. Although he did not live to see the park completed, his contributions were recognized as vital to the project.

The speaker emphasized the historical significance of the location, noting that it was once a gathering place for civil rights leaders who engaged in discussions and shared stories that shaped the community. The park is seen as a cornerstone for the revitalization of the surrounding area, which is currently experiencing growth with new homes and offices being developed.

A notable feature of the park is its extensive lighting, which was described as a beacon for the community, symbolizing hope and remembrance. The speaker expressed optimism about the park's role in the city's mission to move forward and enhance the area.

The ceremony highlighted the importance of honoring the past while looking toward the future, with the park serving as a lasting tribute to Isom Cleland and the civil rights movement in Mobile. The event concluded with a sense of gratitude and reflection on the park's potential impact on the community.