ALEXANDRIA, VA – The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria African American Hall of Fame will unveil the Parker-Gray Memorial Walkway on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 2-3 p.m. during a dedication ceremony. The event, which will take place at the Wythe Street entrance of Charles Houston Rec Center (901 Wythe St.), will be streamed live online.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, on-site attendance will be limited to ensure compliance with local and federal safety guidelines. The event will occur rain or shine.
The Parker-Gray Memorial Walkway was the vision of the Alexandria African American Hall of Fame. It recognizes the 100th anniversary of Parker-Gray High School, which opened to students on Sept. 10, 1920.
The school provided Black children with comprehensive education at a time when segregation and lack of resources, teachers, and facilities threatened what is now a fundamental right of every child.
The walkway – consisting of the Parker-Gray Bulldog mascot and engraved bricks to honor teachers, students, and others – is located at the main entrance of the rec center, That area was the original site of the school.
Community members may continue to purchase commemorative bricks as part of the second phase of the project, with a projected spring 2021 installation. To purchase a brick, visit the donor site. For more information, visit Alexandria African American Hall of Fame website or call 571-217-9951.
ICYMI: International Gold Cup to Stream Online Oct. 24
