During this time of global unrest, many communities are experiencing division and strife. Here in southwest Michigan, our community is using this moment to come together with a shared vision of creating a place where our interconnectedness is celebrated. We want our kids to know that unity, justice, and equity are valued here.
Over the years many have worked hard on initiatives to bring our communities together toward prosperity. This project will build monuments of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. that will serve as a permanent reminder of the spirit of those efforts and of Dr. King’s work and vision. Public art is powerful. It can send a clear and lasting message that can transform and heal. This is not just an art project; this is a community-building project. Together we are building monuments, but more than that, we are building unity and equity.
This year, several partner organizations came together as part of city-led initiatives, striving for a future in which all children in this community feel safe to explore and grow. The monuments we erect together will create a special place for us to connect, learn, and reflect.
The momentum is mounting, the list of supporters is growing, and the t-shirts are popular. Donors at every level share your desire to live in a cohesive, just community. Will you please consider joining our movement? It’s easy to donate on our website – unifiedmonuments.org/donate. Your gift today will be multiplied. A generous matching grant of $250,000 from the Whirlpool Foundation is contingent upon the community raising the balance of the funds needed for this important project.
On Tuesday, January 18, 2022, at 4pm, a Zoom meeting will provide an update of exciting developments about the artist(s) and sites. Register to attend.
We would be pleased to meet with you personally if you have questions or advice about the project. Please email us at unifiedmonuments@gmail.org and let us know what time would work for you. Thank you.
Mack and Sharon Brown, AFrican AMErican History & Literature Gallery
Mike Nadolski, LMC Mendel Center
Julia Gourley Donohue, Krasl Art Center
WHY, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN, WHO and HOW?
Why?
If we really prize equality, love, and justice we will make sure there is room in our towns for community-building, education, and reflection.
What?
Two permanent monuments, one in St. Joseph and one in Benton Harbor, will each represent Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and other notable leaders, connecting the two cities, encouraging both halves of this community to see the other, and jointly declaring our insistence on justice for all people. Programming and curricula hosted at the sites will foster conversation, reflection, and celebration.
When? Now is the time!
- January 2022: Artist(s) announced and engaged in a design development contract.
- March 2022: City Councils approve locations.
- June 2022: Design revealed to the public. Commission contract signed.
- Fall 2023: Project Completion Summer/Fall.
Where? To be determined.
This is a grassroots project, and we hope that the people of this community will contribute suggestions. Along the river, in the park, on the bluff, on the beach? Let’s be a community that works together by deciding together where the monuments are placed. We hope the two locations and designs are somehow connected, so the full effect comes from seeing both.
Who? All of us.
The Unified Civic Monuments Project is led by the founders of the African American History & Literature Gallery, and volunteers from many local organizations, notably Krasl Art Center, Lake Michigan College, the BH/SJ Arts & Culture Social Justice Group, and the cities of Benton Harbor and Saint Joseph. A full listing of our committee members and supporters can be found on the donations page of our website. It’s a
grassroots community-based project. ALL ARE WELCOME!
How?
This project seeks to raise $850,000 for concept development, materials, site preparation, and completion. Berrien Community Foundation is our partner and fiduciary and has made it easy to donate at UnifiedMonuments.org. Recognition opportunities at the monument site are available.
Donors to date include:
- Whirlpool Foundation*
- Frederick S. Upton Foundation
- Berrien Community Foundation
- Meijer Corporation
- SJ/BH Rotary Club
- Shurn’s Auto Service Center
- Southwest Michigan Tourist Council
- United Federal Credit Union
What next?
Contribute your ideas ● Donate ● Be part of the movement ● Bring our communities together
*Your donation’s impact doubles with Whirlpool Foundation’s matching $250,000 grant