Atlanta honors Mayor Shirley Franklin with new park dedication

The Westside Reservoir Park Renaming Ceremony took place on March 27, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia, honoring former Mayor Shirley Franklin. The event celebrated Franklin's significant contributions to the city, particularly as the first Black woman to serve as mayor in a major U.S. city.

The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome from the host, who expressed gratitude for the beautiful weather and the community's presence. Acknowledgments were made to various organizations and individuals who contributed to the event, including the Office of Parks, Atlanta Department of Transportation, local schools, and sponsors like Coca-Cola and Chick-fil-A.

The program featured a musical performance by students from Martin Luther King Junior Ensemble of the Atlanta Public Schools, showcasing the talents of local youth. The host emphasized Franklin's trailblazing role in Atlanta's history, highlighting her impact on the community and her legacy as a leader.

Reverend Anthony Motley, senior pastor of Lindsey Street Baptist Church, was invited to the podium to offer an invocation. He praised Franklin's contributions and referred to her as "America's Mayor," underscoring the respect and admiration she commands within the community.

The ceremony not only marked the renaming of the park to Shirley Clark Franklin Park but also served as a celebration of Franklin's enduring influence and the positive changes she brought to Atlanta during her tenure. The event concluded with a call for continued community engagement and appreciation for the city's rich history.