Arthur Ashe Boulevard Dedication Ceremony — Highlights

Time Period
1925 to Today
Media Type
Video
Topics
Politics & Government

On Saturday, June 22, 2019, the Virginia Museum of History & Culture co-hosted the official dedication ceremony of Arthur Ashe Boulevard in partnership with the City of Richmond, Arthur Ashe Boulevard Initiative, and the Commonwealth of Virginia on the front lawn of VMHC at 428 N Arthur Ashe Boulevard.

The historic occasion featured a keynote address by renowned civil rights activist Congressman John Lewis; remarks from local and state elected officials, including Congressman Donald McEachin, Mayor of Richmond Levar Stoney, Senator Tim Kaine, and Governor of Virginia Ralph Northam; remarks from VMHC President & CEO Jamie O. Bosket, Arthur Ashe's nephew David O. Harris, Jr., and Dominion Energy President & CEO Thomas F. Farrell, II; a presentation of the colors by U.S. Army Fort Lee Color Guard; musical performances by Elegba Folklore Society and Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church; and the dedication of Arthur Ashe Boulevard and street sign unveiling by Mayor Stoney, Ashe family members, and Richmond Councilwoman Kim Gray. Other honored guests included the Congressional Black Caucus, Congressmember Karen Bass, Congressman Bobby Scott, and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley.

The Arthur Ashe Boulevard Dedication Ceremony was generously sponsored by Dominion Energy. The exhibition Determined: The 400-Year Struggle for Black Equality is generously sponsored by Altria, American Evolution: 2019 Commemoration, and Bank of America, with additional support provided by Conrad and Peggy Hall, Mr. and Mrs. Gilmer Minor III, and the Community Foundation for a greater Richmond.