Honoring the Legacy of Mable Howard: Juneteenth Art Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
On June 16, 2024, Berkeley celebrated Juneteenth with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new public artwork by renowned artist Mildred Howard. The sculpture, titled “Delivered, Mable’s Promissory Note,” is installed at the Ashby BART station, symbolizing the deep-rooted contributions of Berkeley’s African American community.
The sculpture pays tribute to Mildred Howard’s mother, Mable Howard, an activist who led the fight to underground the BART tracks in South Berkeley during the 1960s. This effort prevented the division of the predominantly Black neighborhood, showcasing her dedication to community and justice. Inspired by traditional West African metalwork, the artwork highlights the cultural heritage and resilience of the African American community in the face of gentrification and racism.
The ribbon-cutting event was a part of the Berkeley Juneteenth Festival and featured notable speakers, including Berkeley Poet Laureate Aya de León, Mayor Jesse Arreguín, and Councilmember Ben Bartlett. This event not only honored Mable Howard’s legacy but also underscored the ongoing importance of community activism in Berkeley.
This significant public art installation, the largest investment in a public art project by the city to date, serves as a reminder of the power of community action and the enduring impact of the Howard family’s contributions to Berkeley.
Read more at: https://www.berkeleyside.org/2024/06/14/berkeley-mildred-howard-artist-south-berkeley-ashby-bart
Learn more at: https://berkeleyca.gov/community-recreation/civic-arts