Black History Takes its Place in Downtown Evansville

By Rasheedah Ajibade

Black history will take its place at the center of downtown Evansville where banners honoring African American leaders will be displayed along Main Street. This initiative, the first of its kind, centers the stories of people whose leadership and service helped build the city but have often gone unrecognized. Coinciding with the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, launched by historian Carter G. Woodson as Negro History Week in February 1926, this project mirrors what Woodson sought to do: acknowledge the contributions of African Americans. This moment is not only about celebration, but correction — placing public recognition where it has long been due.

For much of American history, Black contributions were minimized or erased through systems built on discrimination and racial inequity. These systems influenced which stories were preserved and which were ignored. Even now, debates have unfolded both national and locally about whose history is publicly acknowledged, what cultural institutions are funded, and what curriculum is taught in schools.

To combat racial discrimination that crippled the progress of Evansville, The Human Relations Commission was founded in 1948, with a focus on equity, inclusion, and fairness. Diane Clements, executive director, describes the Black History Banner project as a natural extension of the commission’s work. She said the project is designed to encourage reflection, build awareness, and help bridge divisions within the community. “We are more alike than different,” Clements said. “This effort highlights the shared values and contributions that have helped shape Evansville into what it is today.”

A Fair and Transparent Selection Process

According to Clements the banner initiative drew 33 community nominations, from which 10 honorees were selected. As the program’s inaugural year, Clements said the commission was intentional about establishing a fair and transparent review process.

Rather than relying on reputations or personal familiarity, the selection committee evaluated nominees solely on the information submitted. Clements explained that the approach was designed to prevent bias and ensure that every nominee was considered on a level playing field. The commission is encouraging future nominators to provide as much detail as possible, as the process will continue to be refined in the years ahead.

The selection committee included Commissioners Watez Phelps Sr., Dr. Marjorie Cabell, Dr. Renee Brooks, as well as historian Stan Schmitt, and historian Dr. James Macleod, who served at the beginning of the process but later stepped away due to university obligations. Clements said the composition of the selection committee was intentional. In addition to professional experience, the commission prioritized having members with varied perspectives, including individuals who are not originally from Evansville. That mix, she explained, helped limit personal bias and ensured nominees were evaluated based on impact rather than familiarity.

Honorees as Community Pillars

The collective contributions of the honorees represent all aspects of life: economic development, civil rights, education, youth and mentorship, public service, and media. Rather than viewing the honorees as isolated individuals, Clements described them as institutions in their own right. “Three words that come to mind when I think about these individuals: impact, excellence, and drive,” said Clements. She emphasized that the honorees did their work despite systemic barriers, legal discrimination, and limited access to opportunity. “These are people whose leadership, service, and perseverance helped shape our city,” she added. Their collective recognition is a reminder of how far Evansville has come.

Public Memory and the Future

The Black History Banner project is intended to be ongoing, not a one-time effort. This continued recognition places Black history in full public view — not as an afterthought, but as a central part of Evansville’s identity. For young people and emerging leaders, the initiative also sends a clear message: “We see you, and you matter,” Clements said.

That intergenerational connection reflects a deeper purpose behind the project. Clements shared a personal story about one of the honorees, Jacqueline LaGrone, who worked alongside Dr. Ira Neal for years coordinating a Black History Month talent show to engage young people in the celebration. Clements credited LaGrone with helping her transition after moving to Evansville, describing how she took her “under her wing,” offering guidance, lessons, and mentorship during her formative years.

The next time you take a stroll down Main Street, don’t just look-reflect, learn, and share the stories of the people who continue to shape this city.

Learn More about the 2026 Honorees

• Willie Effie Thomas – “First Lady” of Evansville’s civil rights movement, educator, NAACP leader
• Estella Moss – Evansville’s first Black woman elected official, civil rights advocate, community leader
• Aurelia S. Bradley – Educator, civic leader, mentor
• George Flowers, Sr. – Evansville’s first Black fire chief, youth advocate, mentor
• Rev. Dr. Adrian M. Brooks, Sr. – Founder of Memorial Community Development Corporation, civic leader, community strategist
• Alberta Stevenson – Evansville’s first Black school counselor in an integrated school, co-owner of Stevenson’s Realty and Insurance Company, civic leader
• Jacqueline LaGrone – Evansville’s first Black woman appointed official, civil rights advocate, community leader
• Sondra Matthews – Founder of Our Times newspaper, founder of the Evansville African American Museum, community leader
• Dallas Sprinkles – Author of The History of Evansville Blacks, business owner, civic leader
• Verdelski Miller – Founder of Boom Squad, attorney, community advocate