Video UPDATE:  “Kneeling Ministers” Plaque Unveiled

Family members of the “kneeling ministers” unveil this plaque.  It explains in detail who they are:  the reverand’s Nelson Smith, John Porter and A.D. King.

John Porter’s Widow, Dorothy Porter said, “It’s an honor an honor to finally be recognized for who you really are.“

Dorothy Porter remembers when this event happened in civil rights history.  It was a time when she was afraid for her husband.

Porter again, “So I was very afraid, but naturally with your faith you try to lean on it.“

But today no fear - only happiness that this day is finally here - even though when the sculpture was first placed - the debate raged over whose names should be there.  The original heads for the sculptures were even shown at the ceremony.

Porter said, “It should have been done from the beginning, I would rather not be here for this cause, but in that it didn’t happen, I’m happy to be here today.“

Smith’s grandson, Reverand Anthony Johnson who led the way for the placement of a plaque echoes that sentiment.

Smith’s grandson, Rev Anthony Johnson said, “It’s a feeling of elation.  It’s a feeling of accomplishment, and more over all, it’s a feeling of closure and completion, something that should have been done in ‘92.“

Kelly Ingram Park also known as West Park was an assembly point for sit-ins, boycotts, and marches designed to end segregation in Birmingham.