Heritage Series presents “Matriarchs of Washington Park, Mesa”
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In honor of Black History Month, the Mesa Temple Events Heritage Series presents: Matriarchs of Washington Park – African American women who fearlessly faced racism and misogyny in Mesa, AZ.
Guest Lecturer, Bruce Nelson, actor, filmmaker and author.
Celebrate the African American women who demonstrated courageous efforts of community activism, artistry and kinship in a difficult time of segregation and prejudice. Washington Park, aka North Town, is a one-square-mile-radius community located just north of downtown Mesa and was the once-segregated neighborhood of Mesa. Today it is recognized by the city as the Washington-Escobedo Heritage Neighborhood. The community thrived thanks to the efforts of strong women such as Veora E. Johnson, Velma Alston, Lillie Mae King, Gladys Boston, Clara McPherson, Minnie Briscoe, Finder Anna Raglin and Louise Harrington. Through their resiliency, these women profoundly influenced the culture of Mesa. Learn more about them and the heritage they left to our community.
Saturday, February 4, 2023, at 7 p.m. at the Mesa Temple Visitors’ Center, 455 E. Main St. Seating is limited so come early.
