Annapolis Recognizes Parren J. Mitchell's Transformative Contributions with Memorial Dedication at Pip Moyer Rec Center

The City of Annapolis today celebrated the dedication of the Parren J. Mitchell Memorial at the Pip Moyer Recreation Center. This ceremony commemorated the enduring legacy of a truly groundbreaking individual who overcame obstacles and continues to inspire successive generations.

Parren J. Mitchell achieved a historic milestone as the first African American elected to the United States Congress from Maryland. This accomplishment represented a pivotal moment in our state's political and social evolution. In addition to his impactful service in Congress, Mr. Mitchell collaborated closely with local leaders to successfully establish Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday as a state holiday, thereby positioning Maryland as only the second state in the nation to formally recognize the lasting impact of this esteemed civil rights leader.

The Roger "Pip" Moyer Recreation Center serves as a particularly meaningful and fitting location for this memorial. It functions as an essential center for community engagement, inclusivity, and youth development, and it also possesses a historical connection to the Mitchell family's involvement in the Civil Rights Movement. During that critical period, former State Senator Michael Mitchell, Parren J. Mitchell’s nephew, was arrested during a sit-in at a segregated restaurant, and he subsequently called upon Roger “Pip” Moyer to provide bail. By placing the memorial at this location, officials can firmly root Parren J. Mitchell’s legacy within the very community shaped by his family's unwavering dedication to equality, service, and progress.

This memorial has been realized through the dedicated efforts of the Caucus of African American Leaders and the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Committee, who successfully spearheaded the fundraising initiatives for this tribute. These esteemed organizations have a distinguished history of bringing significant memorials to our city, including the Civil Rights Footsoldiers Memorial at People’s Park and the Guardians of the First Amendment Memorial on Compromise Street.

On April 28, the Annapolis City Council unanimously approved a Resolution to situate the statue at the Pip Moyer Recreation Center, a cherished and frequently visited landmark within Maryland’s capital city.

Carl Snowden, convener of the Caucus of African American Leaders, emphasized the profound significance of the memorial: “The Parren J. Mitchell statue stands not merely as a tribute to an exceptional man, but also as a powerful symbol of progress and possibility. I extend my sincere gratitude to the community for their generous support in funding this monument. We are also deeply appreciative of the City’s acknowledgment of Mitchell’s enduring legacy. Together, we ensure that future generations comprehend the profound impact of principled leadership and the vital importance of civic engagement."

Keiffer Mitchell, a nephew of the late civil rights activists, released the following statement:

"Today, The City Of Annapolis dedicated a memorial in honor of my Uncle, Parren J. Mitchell, who served 16 years in the United States #Congress as #Maryland's 1st #africanamerican Congressman (1971 - 1986). On behalf of the enitre Mitchell family, I thank all those involved with this honor and the wonderful words spoken about my uncle and his work. I am especially proud that my Uncle Parren's work and legacy lives on for other generations to continue making our society a better place for ALL. Special thanks to Carl Snowden Governor Wes Moore, First Lady Dawn Flythe Moore, Mayor Gavin Buckley and the local and state officials who attended and Joe Andrucyk for the great photos."

: Parren Mitchell's Obituary