This post is from eyeonannapolis.com The City of Annapolis proudly announces the dedication of the Parren J. Mitchell Memorial at the Pip Moyer Recreation Center on Tuesday, May 28, from 1 to 3 p.m. This special event honors the legacy of a trailblazing leader who broke barriers and inspired generations.

Parren J. Mitchell was the first African American elected to the United States Congress from Maryland, a historic achievement that marked a turning point in the state’s political and social landscape. Beyond his service in Congress, Mr. Mitchell worked closely with local leaders to make Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday a state holiday, making Maryland the second state in the nation to recognize the civil rights leader’s legacy in this way.

The Roger “Pip” Moyer Recreation Center is a fitting and meaningful location for the Parren J. Mitchell Memorial, not only because it serves as a hub for community, inclusion, and youth development, but also because of its deep historical ties to the Mitchell family’s legacy of civil rights activism. During the Civil Rights Movement, former State Sen. Michael Mitchell—Parren J. Mitchell’s nephew—was arrested during a sit-in at a segregated restaurant where he called on Roger “Pip” Moyer to post bail. Placing the memorial here honors that courageous stand and situates Parren J. Mitchell’s legacy in the very heart of a community shaped by his family’s commitment to equality, service, and progress.

“Annapolis is proud to host this memorial in honor of Parren J. Mitchell,” said Mayor Gavin Buckley. “His life’s work continues to inspire us to push for justice, equity, and opportunity for all.”

The memorial was made possible through the efforts of the Caucus of African American Leaders and the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Committee, who successfully raised the necessary funds for this tribute. These organizations have previously been responsible for bringing the Civil Rights Footsoldiers Memorial (at People’s Park) and the Guardians of the First Amendment Memorial on Compromise Street in downtown.

On April 28, the Annapolis City Council unanimously approved a Resolution to host the statue at the Pip Moyer Recreation Center, a popular location in Maryland’s capital city.

“The Parren J. Mitchell statue stands not just as a tribute to a remarkable man, but as a symbol of progress and possibility,” said Carl Snowden, convener of the Caucus of African American Leaders. “I thank the community for their support in funding this monument. We are also grateful for the City’s support in acknowledging Mitchell’s legacy. Together, we ensure that future generations understand the power of principled leadership and the importance of civic engagement.”

Community members, leaders, and guests are invited to join in the dedication ceremony to reflect on Parren J. Mitchell’s legacy and celebrate a new chapter in preserving our shared history.

<h3 class=”wp-block-heading”>Event Details:</h3>

What: Dedication of the Parren J. Mitchell Memorial When: Tuesday, May 28, 2025 | 1 to 3 p.m. Where: Pip Moyer Recreation Center, 273 Hilltop Lane, Annapolis, MD