Downtown Mobile just got a fresh new addition with the opening of Isom Clemon Civil Rights Memorial Park.
Over 150 people gathered for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, celebrating a space that blends history, art, and community.
The park is at 520 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. and honors Isom Clemon, a key figure in the city’s labor and civil rights movements.
Honoring a Legacy of Hard Work
Isom Clemon wasn’t just a leader; he was a force for change.
As a union leader with the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), he fought for workers’ rights and played a major role in the civil rights movement.
His dedication wasn’t limited to his job—helping others was at the heart of everything he did.
His daughter, Darlene Moore, shared how her father’s motto was always to lend a hand, a mindset that shaped both his work and his life.
Art That Tells a Story
The park isn’t just a place to sit and reflect—it’s packed with meaningful art.
A towering 8-foot-9-inch bronze statue of Clemon, created by Steve Whyte Sculpture Studios, now stands tall, reminding visitors of his contributions.
The Mobile Arts Council hosted a nationwide contest to find the right artist for this tribute, ensuring the final piece truly captured Clemon’s impact.
Another standout feature is The Guardian of Labor, Liberty, and Love, created by local artists Charles Smith and Frank Ledbetter.
This artwork celebrates the hardworking men and women of ILA Local 1410, the same union Clemon championed.
The park is more than a memorial—it’s a place where history and art come together to tell an important story.
A Place for Reflection and Connection
Leaders at the event made it clear—this park is more than just a tribute to the past.
It’s a space designed for the community, a place where people can gather, reflect, and be inspired.
Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson emphasized how the project brought people together, just like Clemon did in his lifetime.
County Commission President Merceria Ludgood highlighted the park as a symbol of unity and progress, meant to inspire future generations.
A Piece of History in the Heart of the City
For a city deeply tied to the labor movement, this park is a meaningful addition.
It recognizes the contributions of workers who shaped Mobile’s history while giving locals and visitors a space to reflect on that legacy.
With its mix of history, art, and community spirit, Isom Clemon Civil Rights Memorial Park is set to be a lasting landmark in downtown Mobile.
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