WHEREAS, Lucien Edward Blackwell was an American politician, decorated war veteran, and dedicated public servant. Mr. Blackwell joined the Longshoremen’s Union in 1950 and working his way up to the presidency. He served in the Korean War, where he became a leader and light-middleweight champion of his Division; and
WHEREAS, Lucien Blackwell was a beloved fixture in the City of Philadelphia. As a Union leader, a State Representative, a City Councilman , a United States Congressman, and a citizen, he sought to serve, to help, to lead by example and to attain justice for all; and
WHEREAS, Lucien Blackwell was an inspirational leader, responsible for major initiatives in Philadelphia, including the minority set-aside legislation, the construction of the
Convention Center and policies affecting vendors, the homeless and those in need of
assistance; and
WHEREAS, Lucien Blackwell was a voice of the poor, who looked to him as their champion. As a statesman, he worked with community organizations, business groups, elected and appointed officials and religious leaders to “level the playing field” in housing, employment and economic development; and
WHEREAS, Lucien Blackwell was the mentor to scores of young people and aspiring politicians. He was truly the most influential African American of his time, and he changed the way we perceive politics in this City; now therefore
THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA HEREBY ORDAINS:
SECTION 1.
Mill Creek Park is hereby renamed and dedicated as “Lucien E. Blackwell Park.”
End