A statue of Xernona Clayton, a civil rights icon, has been unveiled in downtown Atlanta. The statue was erected at the corner of West Peachtree and Simpson Street, an area already designated as Xernona Clayton Plaza, on International Women’s Day. Clayton is the first Black woman to have a statue erected in her honor in the city.
“I’m awed by it all,” Clayton said. “The mere fact it’s come to this, that people wanted to create something for me. This is not something I asked for. This came from well-wishers, people who think I’ve done something. I’m flattered and honored by the results. I’m speechless today.”
Clayton is a legendary figure who has made significant contributions to African American history. She was the first African American to host a television show in the South and gained her footing in the Civil Rights Movement with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in the mid-60s, working alongside Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and traveling with Coretta Scott King.
Mrs. Clayton was also instrumental in the desegregation of Atlanta hospitals. And if this woman’s achievements couldn’t be any more amazing, she is the founder of the Trumpet Awards which commemorate Black humanitarian achievements as well as accomplishments in media and the arts.
Clayton, who is now 92 years old, attended the ceremony and thanked those involved in creating the statue. She expressed gratitude for the recognition and said that the statue represents the persistence of Atlanta’s civil rights movement. The creation of the statue was a collaborative effort between the City of Atlanta, the Xernona Clayton Foundation, and other organizations.
The unveiling of Clayton’s statue comes at a time when there is increased awareness around the importance of recognizing and celebrating African American history. It also highlights the need for more representation of women and people of color in public spaces.
Congratulations! #BWLM💕
