Longtime civil rights leaders Dolores Huerta and Andrew Young discuss their social justice efforts at The Summit on Race in America at the LBJ Presidential Library on Monday, April 8, 2019. Huerta, a Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient, co-founded the United Farm Workers of America with Cesar Chavez in the 1960s and has spent decades advocating for laborers, women, and children. Young, a key lieutenant to Martin Luther King, Jr. in the civil rights movement of the 1960s, has served as mayor of Atlanta, U.S. congressman from Georgia, and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Moderating the discussion is Mark K. Updegrove, LBJ Foundation president and CEO...The Summit on Race in America runs from April 8-April 10 at the LBJ Library...04/08/2019.LBJ Library Photo by Jay Godwin..
The Andrew Young Foundation is spearheading a monumental initiative to build a $100 million Peace Center in Atlanta, aiming to honor the legacy of the city’s revered former mayor and civil rights leader, Andrew Young. Located in Vine City, a neighborhood rich in history and cultural significance, the proposed center is envisioned as a sanctuary for dialogue, understanding, and community engagement.
This ambitious project aligns perfectly with Young’s lifelong commitment to peace, justice, and community service. For decades, he has been a beacon of hope, advocating for unity in a city that has often grappled with division and strife. The foundation’s vision of a Peace Center goes beyond mere brick and mortar; it seeks to create a transformative space that fosters healing and encourages collaboration among individuals from all walks of life.
Vine City, once a thriving hub of African American culture, has seen its share of challenges, yet it remains a symbol of resilience and potential. The Peace Center is not just about honoring Young’s achievements; it’s also about revitalizing a neighborhood that has historically been neglected. By placing this center within Vine City, the foundation aims to inspire residents and visitors alike to engage with the community’s rich history and to strive for a brighter future.
The proposal has sparked interest and enthusiasm among local leaders and residents who recognize the importance of a dedicated space that promotes peace and understanding. In an era where many communities face rising tensions and divisiveness, the Andrew Young Foundation’s initiative offers a hopeful vision—a tangible reminder of the work that lies ahead in pursuit of justice and equality. If all goes as planned, this Peace Center could become a landmark institution in Atlanta, serving as a testament to Andrew Young’s enduring legacy and the city’s unwavering spirit.
About The Author
