INSIDER
The first Wednesday Art Walk is back in downtown Jacksonville
Read full article: The first Wednesday Art Walk is back in downtown JacksonvilleDowntown Vision is hosting the first “First Wednesday Art Walk” of the year, welcoming people to downtown Jacksonville, and celebrating the city’s creative talent. The event happens on Downtown’s Northbank core all the way to James Weldon Johnson Park.
River City Plus: Meet The King of Crawfish | Jacksonville’s 3rd Annual Crawfish Festival
Read full article: River City Plus: Meet The King of Crawfish | Jacksonville’s 3rd Annual Crawfish FestivalJAG boilers will be hosting Jacksonville’s 3rd Annual Crawfish Festival June 1st at James Weldon Johnson Park from 11am-8pm. You can visit our instagram jag_boilers_llc2223, or our Facebook JAG Boilers Crawfish for more information. If you need more in depth details contact us via email at jagboilers@gmail.com or cell 225-223-3939 or 504-296-5877.
City leaders, local organizations hold annual Jacksonville Emancipation Celebration
Read full article: City leaders, local organizations hold annual Jacksonville Emancipation CelebrationCity leaders and different organizations are holding a celebration for the annual Jacksonville Emancipation Celebration at James Weldon Johnson Park.
What you need to know for Emancipation Celebration Day at James Weldon Johnson Park
Read full article: What you need to know for Emancipation Celebration Day at James Weldon Johnson ParkCouncilwoman Ju’Coby Pittman, The Ritz Theater & Museum and the City of Jacksonville are excited to announce the fourth annual Jacksonville Emancipation Celebration taking place in James Weldon Johnson Park. The festival will take place on Sunday, May 19, 2024 in an effort to educate the community about the historical significance of Florida’s observed Emancipation Day. Cities like Jacksonville in the State of Florida are acknowledging this special day of freedom.
Take Em Down Jax hosts party to celebrate ‘sweet victory’ of Confederate monument removals
Read full article: Take Em Down Jax hosts party to celebrate ‘sweet victory’ of Confederate monument removalsTake ‘Em Down Jax held a party Friday to celebrate the removal of Confederate monuments and the change of school names connected to the Civil War around Jacksonville.
Pro-life activists rally downtown against Florida abortion initiative that could appear on November’s ballot
Read full article: Pro-life activists rally downtown against Florida abortion initiative that could appear on November’s ballotAnti-abortion advocates rallied downtown Saturday morning to express their disapproval of an abortion initiative that Florida voters could see on the November ballot.
Deck The Chairs announces winners from 2023 holiday display contest
Read full article: Deck The Chairs announces winners from 2023 holiday display contestDeck The Chairs organizers said despite multiple days impacted by weather, the holiday display event drew record crowds for its 11th season in Jacksonville Beach.
WATCH LIVE: Jacksonville kicks off holiday season with Christmas tree lighting at James Weldon Johnson Park
Read full article: WATCH LIVE: Jacksonville kicks off holiday season with Christmas tree lighting at James Weldon Johnson ParkThe city of Jacksonville is kicking off the holiday season with the annual lighting of the Christmas tree.
Downtown Jacksonville cafe closes, cites safety concerns, parking issues, rising food costs as reasons
Read full article: Downtown Jacksonville cafe closes, cites safety concerns, parking issues, rising food costs as reasonsAfter three years, Mag’s Café in downtown Jacksonville is officially closing its doors.
10 arrested during investigation after shooting at James Weldon Johnson Park, sheriff says
Read full article: 10 arrested during investigation after shooting at James Weldon Johnson Park, sheriff saysTen individuals — most between the ages of 15 and 17 — were arrested after an investigation into a shooting at James Weldon Johnson Park in Downtown Jacksonville, Sheriff T.K. Waters announced Tuesday.
Jacksonville’s Emancipation Celebration festival returns to James Weldon Johnson Park
Read full article: Jacksonville’s Emancipation Celebration festival returns to James Weldon Johnson ParkThe festival honoring Emancipation Celebration Day in Jacksonville has become an annual tradition for James Weldon Johnson Park.
Confederate monument pedestal removed from James Weldon Johnson Park
Read full article: Confederate monument pedestal removed from James Weldon Johnson ParkThe last remaining piece of a 125-year-old Confederate monument in the heart of downtown Jacksonville was removed over the weekend from James Weldon Johnson Park across the street from Jacksonville’s City Hall, as first reported by the Florida Times-Union.
James Weldon Johnson Park hosts Hip Hop Festival
Read full article: James Weldon Johnson Park hosts Hip Hop FestivalJames Weldon Johnson Park’s Hip Hop Festival returns for its second year to once again shine light on the Duval Hip Hop scene while paying special homage to the late Paten Locke – a Duval based, internationally acclaimed Hip Hop Legend whose influence reverberates throughout Duval’s Hip Hop circles to this day. The festival will feature many local food trucks and vendors, be family friendly, free to attend and will take place from 12pm to 5pm on Saturday, February 18, 2023.
The benefits of an ice bath and Vive Wellness Fest is back!
Read full article: The benefits of an ice bath and Vive Wellness Fest is back!Vive Wellness Fest is BACK Saturday, March 4th at James Weldon Johnson Park. We invite you to come explore the power of body-based healing and experience all that Vive Wellness Fest has to offer! From vibrant Zumba classes, Ice baths, Sound baths, Community yoga sessions and Guided meditation journeys - there’s something for everyone. Let this magical day bring out your creative spirit as we flow together into one high vibe movement – let’s feel alive in harmony at Vive Wellness Fest!.
Northside Coalition leader addresses city council month after removal in handcuffs
Read full article: Northside Coalition leader addresses city council month after removal in handcuffsBen Frazier, the leader of the Northside Coalition of Jacksonville, led a rally Tuesday evening and spoke in front of the city council for the first time since his removal in handcuffs from a December meeting.
Le Dîner En Blanc puts unity, dining and ‘Cirque En Blanc’ on display for annual all-white party
Read full article: Le Dîner En Blanc puts unity, dining and ‘Cirque En Blanc’ on display for annual all-white partyAn event that began with three friends in 1988 in Paris has now become an annual soiree among hundreds of people throughout multiple cities across America.
James Weldon Johnson Park approved for 3-year redesign project. What would you like to see there?
Read full article: James Weldon Johnson Park approved for 3-year redesign project. What would you like to see there?The $10 million project became official as the park’s board approved it last week as a part of a bigger strategic plan.
2nd Annual Emancipation Celebration Day
Read full article: 2nd Annual Emancipation Celebration DayCouncilwoman Ju’Coby Pittman, James Weldon Johnson Park and the City of Jacksonville are hosting the 2nd annual Jacksonville Emancipation Celebration Day following last year’s successful event. The festival will take place on Saturday, May 21, 2022 from 4pm to 9pm in James Weldon Johnson Park. Fresh from his star making turn on NBC’s The Voice, Paris Winningham will headline the festival’s entertainment. Other great local performers include Jacksonville Arts and Music School, Taryn “Love Reigns” Warwood, Mal Jones and MJbaker. In addition, Jacksonville’s Emancipation Celebration will feature local African American food trucks and vendors and fun activities for the kids.
Jordan Davis to be remembered at Jacksonville park on 27th birthday
Read full article: Jordan Davis to be remembered at Jacksonville park on 27th birthdayWednesday is Jordan Davis Day at James Weldon Johnson Park, and the foundation named in his honor is holding an event to celebrate what would have been his 27th birthday.
Official Christmas tree lights up James Weldon Johnson Park on Wednesday
Read full article: Official Christmas tree lights up James Weldon Johnson Park on WednesdayThe City of Jacksonville will hold its annual event and Christmas tree lighting ceremony at James Weldon Johnson Park on Wednesday, Dec. 1.
Hallow's Eve: A Frightfully Funky Festival | River City Live
Read full article: Hallow's Eve: A Frightfully Funky Festival | River City LiveAdd another event to the weekend! The Jacksonville community is invited to James Weldon Johnson Park for their Hallow’s Eve: A Frightfully Fun Festival Saturday evening. It’s a free event that runs from 5-10pm and is perfect for the whole family. It also is great for people who are looking for something to do after the Florida Georgia game. Expect lots of fun, food, music and more… and by more? Their park mixologist has a Witch’s Brew and Zombie Killer that will have adults feeling some type of way. Find out more about the event or other activations at the park at jamesweldonjohnsonpark.org.
City Hall struck by gunfire during 1 of 2 overnight shootings in Jacksonville
Read full article: City Hall struck by gunfire during 1 of 2 overnight shootings in JacksonvilleCity Hall was struck by gunfire during one of two shootings early Sunday morning in Jacksonville, according to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.
Jacksonville lawsuit argues spending tax money on Confederate statues violates Constitution
Read full article: Jacksonville lawsuit argues spending tax money on Confederate statues violates ConstitutionMore than a year after a Confederate statue was removed from the now James Weldon Johnson Park, a Jacksonville man has filed a lawsuit against Mayor Lenny Curry and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis over other statues that are still standing.
Emancipation Celebration Day Tomorrow! | River City Live
Read full article: Emancipation Celebration Day Tomorrow! | River City LiveCouncilwoman Ju’Coby Pittman, James Weldon Johnson Park and the City of Jacksonville are excited to announce the first annual Jacksonville Emancipation Celebration. The festival will take place on Thursday, May 20, 2021 in an effort to educate the community about the historical significance of Florida’s observed Emancipation Day.
Murals on Jacksonville’s Greenleaf & Crosby Building honor Black History Month
Read full article: Murals on Jacksonville’s Greenleaf & Crosby Building honor Black History MonthJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Take a stroll down Laura Street in Downtown Jacksonville near James Weldon Johnson Park right now, and you’ll spot murals on the historic Greenleaf and Crosby Building to honor Black History Month. Specifically, the temporary murals are tributes to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Amanda Gorman, the youngest inaugural poet in American history. Wonderful!” said Demetria Orange, who was passing by the murals Thursday afternoon. “It shows love, it shows appreciation and also it shows progress,” said James Jackson. The murals were commissioned by The Law Offices of Phillips and Hunt and Folio Weekly.
Confederate statue a step closer to returning to Hemming family
Read full article: Confederate statue a step closer to returning to Hemming familyA statue and plaque that honored fallen Confederate soldiers at a downtown park is one step closer to being returned to the family that originally donated it. The statue once stood in what was long known as Hemming Park, until last year, when it was renamed James Weldon Johnson Park. During Tuesday night’s City Council meting, Elwood Hemming, a descendant of the Hemming family, which donated the statue, appeared via Zoom. He said the family is grateful City Council listened to their plea to have the statue returned. “Hopefully the administration works in good faith and with the Hemming family in getting the statue back to the family,” Dennis said.
Holiday pop-up supports Jacksonville businesses impacted by pandemic
Read full article: Holiday pop-up supports Jacksonville businesses impacted by pandemicJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Eighty vendors and food trucks took part in a holiday pop-up Sunday in downtown Jacksonville. The event supported local businesses that have struggled during the coronavirus pandemic. The two have had to travel to find events to sell their items, which they say isn’t ideal during the pandemic. “So something local like this that brings our community back together because we are community most of the vendors,” Taylor-Hicks said. “Look what we’re doing.”904 Pop Up says another event will take place Jan. 24 at the Seawalk Pavilion.
Christmas tree brightens Jacksonville’s James Weldon Johnson Park
Read full article: Christmas tree brightens Jacksonville’s James Weldon Johnson ParkJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Its officially Christmas time in Jacksonville - the switch was flipped on Tuesday night, lighting the tree downtown. At 6:15 p.m., the lights on the tree lit up, showcasing the beautiful blue, red and gold ornaments. This year the tree lighting was virtual, so many people watched at home on their tv screens. “This is a very special time of the year for everyone, and we just love to see the lighting of the Christmas tree, especially in Jacksonville,” Steward said. Last year during the demolition, the ceremony was moved to the park, formerly known as Hemming Park.
Civil rights activist points out errors in proclamation commemorating Ax Handle Saturday
Read full article: Civil rights activist points out errors in proclamation commemorating Ax Handle SaturdayThe biggest honor was a proclamation from the United States Department of the Interior that commemorates the day Ax Handle Saturday happened. But according to local civil rights activist Rodney Hurst, the 1960 NAACP Youth Council president who was 16 years old when he and others were attacked on Ax Handle Saturday, the proclamation has multiple errors. The second line in the proclamation states Ax Handle Saturday resulted in the eventual integration of public accommodations citywide.But Hurst said thats false. And the proclamation states the civil rights movement in Jacksonville began with Ax Handle Saturday. Hurst said facts are needed for a moment in history that has shaped the local and national civil rights movement for generations to come.
GALLERY: 60th anniversary of Ax Handle Saturday
Read full article: GALLERY: 60th anniversary of Ax Handle SaturdayJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Thursday marks the 60th anniversary of the 1960 sit-ins and Ax Handle Saturday, the day a mob of white men with axes and bats attacked young black people after a peaceful sit-in at a segregated lunch counter in downtown Jacksonville. Above are photos of the event at James Weldon Johnson Park, formerly known as Hemming Park on Thursday.
Biden, Trump administration acknowledge grim moment in Jacksonville history
Read full article: Biden, Trump administration acknowledge grim moment in Jacksonville historyThe Jacksonville NAACPs Youth Council commemorated the 60th anniversary of the civil rights demonstration and infamous attack in a ceremony Thursday afternoon in James Weldon Johnson Park, where the attacks took place in 1960. This tragic event, now known as Ax Handle Saturday, leaves a lasting mark on Jacksonville, as both a testament to the progress that has been made and a reminder that we must always stand up for whats right. Today, we continue their fight against injustice and for equality for Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and far too many more. Trumps administration did acknowledge the events with the proclamation, although some facts in it were disputed by the organizers of Thursdays commemoration. Today, the @realDonaldTrump Administration rightly recognized the horrors of #AxHandleSaturday and officially designated newly-named James Weldon Johnson Park as part of the African American Civil Rights Network.
After Hemming Park name change, Council considers revising renaming process
Read full article: After Hemming Park name change, Council considers revising renaming processJACKSONVILLE, Fla. The uproar over renaming Hemming Park to James Weldon Johnson Park is prompting the Jacksonville City Council to consider making some changes in its procedure on renaming buildings and parks. When Councilman Garrett Dennis first proposed the name change for the park, he followed council rules. While the majority of council members voted for the name change, many believe the process of renaming parks and public buildings needs to be improved. Salems main concern is the lack of input from the public with only one public hearing required. With one public hearing we negotiate multi-million dollar deals with the same six week process, Dennis said.
Councilman wants to pump the brakes on renaming Jacksonvilles buildings, parks
Read full article: Councilman wants to pump the brakes on renaming Jacksonvilles buildings, parksCity Councilman Rory Diamond introduced legislation that would institute a two-year moratorium on future renaming, and now that bill is facing opposition and questions about the legislations motive. Even though that bill was withdrawn, Diamond wants to slow down the renaming process. Diamond is proposing a two-year moratorium on renaming Jacksonville parks, schools and public facilities, arguing the city should focus on the pandemic and rebuilding the local economy. Dennis said he wants to fully understand Diamonds motive before the city agrees to pump the brakes on renaming projects for the next two years. The issue is expected to be discussed during the next City Council meeting.
Hemming Park name change splits council members
Read full article: Hemming Park name change splits council membersJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A plan to change the name of a downtown park is causing a rift within the Jacksonville City Council, but a compromise is in the works. It centers around Hemming Park, which is currently named after Civil War veteran Charles Hemming, who donated a Confederate memorial to the state in 1898. “It was definitely a sneak attack by a fellow council member,” Dennis said, noting that legislation to rename Hemming Park after Johnson has been in the works for several weeks. Still those two alone won’t decide the future of the park as it would take 10 votes from City Council to rename it. In my opinion, there should be no agreement, settlement or compromise regarding the proposed name change to James Weldon Johnson park.
Proposals to rename 2 Jacksonville parks take spotlight at City Council meeting
Read full article: Proposals to rename 2 Jacksonville parks take spotlight at City Council meetingJACKSONVILLE, Fla. The process for the Jacksonville City Council to consider changing the names of two city parks continued Tuesday. One would change the name of Confederate Park to Springfield Park. The other bill would change the name of Hemming Park, which is in front of City Hall, to James Weldon Johnson Park. The proposal came a week after a Confederate monument was removed from Hemming Park, the downtown city plaza framed on two sides by City Hall and the federal courthouse. The park is currently named after Civil War veteran Charles Hemming, who donated the Confederate memorial to the state of Florida in 1898.